BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has directed relevant government agencies to monitor prices and product quality during this year’s Vegetarian Festival, which runs from October 21 to 29. The move comes amid high public participation in the annual event, which traditionally sees increased demand for vegetarian food and related goods.
The Ministry of Commerce, under Minister Suphajee Suthumpun, has launched a national campaign titled “Discount Fair: Vegetarian Festival of Merit at Affordable Prices,” in cooperation with 97 public and private sector partners. More than 2,400 vegetarian products are being offered at discounts of up to 56%, with the campaign expected to help reduce household expenses by over 750 million baht and generate more than 2.25 billion baht in economic activity during the festival period.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Periswiwatana said the campaign is part of efforts to help ease living costs while ensuring fair market conditions. Consumers are encouraged to report unfair practices such as price gouging, refusal to sell, hoarding, or lack of clear pricing via the Department of Internal Trade’s hotline (1569) or at local commerce offices.
Violations of price control regulations carry strict penalties. Merchants who fail to display prices may face fines of up to 10,000 baht, while those involved in overpricing, hoarding, or refusal to sell can be fined up to 140,000 baht, imprisoned for up to seven years, or both.
The government also issued a health advisory, reminding the public that sudden dietary changes can affect well-being. People are encouraged to eat a balanced vegetarian diet with sufficient variety and nutrition throughout the nine-day celebration. (NNT)
