PATTAYA, Thailand – Consumers in Pattaya are facing higher food costs after prices for eggs and pork increased in local markets, adding pressure on both vendors and households.
A survey conducted on March 20 found that egg prices have risen by about 6 baht per tray across all sizes. Current retail prices show size 0 eggs selling for around 135 baht per tray, size 1 at 125 baht, size 2 at 120 baht, size 3 at 115 baht, and size 4 at about 110 baht.
Singhanart, owner of a fresh egg shop in Pattaya, said the price adjustment follows the central price announcement by Thailand’s egg farmers’ cooperative association, which raised prices earlier this week. He explained that the main factors include the intense summer heat, which naturally reduces egg production, as well as rising fuel costs linked to global conflicts that have pushed up energy and transportation expenses.
Despite the increase, some vendors are attempting to hold prices steady for key customers such as restaurants and hotels to help ease short-term cost pressures. However, traders warn that if production and transport costs continue to rise, further price adjustments may be unavoidable.
Pork prices have also climbed in local markets, with many cuts increasing by about 10 baht per kilogram. Lean pork from the shoulder and hip sections has risen from 140 baht to 150 baht per kilogram, while pork belly has reached around 200 baht per kilogram, up from 190 baht.
Ribs and minced pork have also increased by roughly 10 baht per kilogram, although pork bones have so far remained unchanged in price.
Vendors at M Market in Pattaya said the price surge has affected nearly all pork products, with lean pork now reaching 150 baht per kilogram and pork belly surpassing the 200-baht mark. Traders added that the exact reason for the pork price increase remains unclear, but the trend has been observed across several market items.
Market observers say the situation will need close monitoring, as several factors — including weather conditions, production costs, and global energy prices — could continue pushing consumer goods prices higher in the coming weeks.
