Commerce Ministry Sets Up Flood Response Center to Prevent Shortages
Thailand's Commerce Ministry launched a nationwide command center to monitor flooding and prevent product shortages and price gouging, activating a 24-hour hotline for reports of hoarding or unfair pricing practices.
The Commerce Ministry has established a command center to monitor flood conditions nationwide and prevent product shortages and price gouging across all provinces. Deputy Secretary Chakra Yodmani revealed this on September 26, following directives from Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachee Suthammaphan.
The ministry has set up a Single Command center coordinated by the deputy secretary and including the Internal Trade Department and Regional Commerce Administration to rapidly assess and resolve issues stemming from flooding in Bangkok and across the country. The ministry is closely tracking the impact on consumers and businesses, particularly regarding availability and pricing of consumer goods, product distribution, and transportation. It is coordinating with provincial commerce offices nationwide to monitor demand and report conditions, while also engaging producers, wholesalers, retailers, and convenience stores to accelerate distribution, increase restocking frequency, and adjust transport methods to meet rising demand in affected areas.
For retail outlets damaged by flooding, the ministry is coordinating with operators to gradually resume services once areas are safe. The ministry has also activated hotline 1569, available 24 hours, for reports of product hoarding, price gouging, or unfair sales practices. Citizens can contact the Internal Trade Department hotline or provincial commerce offices to report violations for swift investigation.
Deputy Secretary Chakra confirmed the ministry will continue monitoring flood situations nationwide and adjusting operations accordingly, with the goal of ensuring adequate consumer goods supply, continuous distribution, and fair pricing for the public.
