BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Commerce is launching the “Thai Helps Thai” campaign on April 1, which offers up to 50 percent discounts on over 1,000 alternative brand products in partnership with major retailers.
Meanwhile, the “Blue Flag” project will also expand to over 500 locations nationwide, using mobile units in remote areas. Essential raw materials will also be supplied to restaurants at special prices to prevent unreasonable increases in meal costs.
Following complaints in Ayutthaya, the Department of Internal Trade (DIT) and the Consumer Protection Police Division conducted a sting operation and uncovered unfair fertilizer pricing. Authorities are meticulously auditing supply chain costs, warning that price gouging carries a maximum penalty of 7 years in prison, a 140,000 baht fine, or both. The public is encouraged to report violations via the 1569 hotline or Line @mr.DIT.
To further assist farmers, the Ministry is upgrading fertilizer subsidies to the “Green Flag Plus” project, offering up to 1,400 baht in relief per eligible farmer. The initiative will cover 50 provinces, starting in Kamphaeng Phet in late April, with a target of 1 million sacks, alongside 10 million sacks offered at factory prices by 26 participating manufacturers.
Additionally, the Ministry is coordinating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to secure the release of raw-material vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz and is actively seeking new global sources of fertilizers. (NNT)
