Chaiyanond Challenges Commerce Minister on 30-Baht Curry

On July 15, 2569, at Parliament, Chaiyanond Detchdetcho, a Democrat Party list MP and deputy party leader, addressed the 40-baht curry controversy, stating that Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supa Jutatumpon, whom he views as skilled, had challenged him to produce evidence of 30-baht curry, offering to investigate with him. Chaiyanond argued that Supa should understand that 30-baht curry exists in other provinces and in Bangkok government offices and schools. He called on the government to verify the current lowest curry price and set that as a standard nationwide. He criticized the Commerce Ministry for failing to reduce product prices despite falling oil costs, saying energy prices have dropped but consumers see no relief. "I've told this eloquent minister repeatedly, but she doesn't listen," Chaiyanond said. "I think she should spend her time solving problems instead of inventing excuses. Check which consumer goods rose in price when energy costs went up, and verify if they've fallen now that costs have dropped. If shops haven't adjusted prices to match lower costs, what legal measures will you take?" He also warned of an impending fruit surplus in the southern harvest season and urged the Commerce Ministry to coordinate with Thai Post, private firms, the Agriculture Ministry, and domestic trade authorities to manage distribution, rather than dismissing the issue. When asked whether Supa should evaluate her own performance, Chaiyanond said the Prime Minister should decide that, but from his perspective, the public will be the judge. If goods remain expensive, wages stay the same, and living costs rise, Supa should reflect on her work. He emphasized that Thailand is a state, not a private enterprise that can do whatever it pleases.