Jasmine Flower Prices Spike to 1,000 Baht Per Liter Before Mother's Day
Jasmine flower prices have spiked to 1,000 baht per liter ahead of Mother's Day due to lower supply from weather damage, prompting Thai trade officials to warn vendors against price gouging and monitor markets for fair pricing.
The Internal Trade Department inspected flower markets at Pak Khlong Talad 2 to monitor jasmine prices ahead of Mother's Day, reminding vendors to display prices clearly and reasonably. Officials warned that any opportunistic price increases would trigger immediate legal action.
Deputy Director-General Chirawut Suvanajaksorn said officials visited the flower market center at Pak Khlong Talad 2 in Talad Noi district and Yod Piman Market in Phra Nakhon district on August 11 to track jasmine sales. Demand for jasmine flowers and garlands increases during the Mother's Day season, but this year's supply is lower, causing prices to rise according to market mechanisms. The department is closely monitoring price levels, product quantities, and price displays to ensure fair trading and prevent consumer exploitation during periods of high demand.
Surveys found that fresh, large-grade A jasmine flowers in retail shops sell for approximately 1,000 baht per liter, while wholesale prices are around 850 baht per liter. Overall fresh jasmine prices range from 750–1,000 baht per liter depending on size, quality, freshness, and vendor. Fresh jasmine garlands are priced at 200–300 baht for large arrangements, 50–100 baht for medium, and 35–50 baht for small, with prices varying by size, quality, and design.
Chirawut said inquiries revealed that most jasmine sold comes from Nakhon Sawan and Kamphaeng Phet provinces. This year's yield is lower than last year due to heavy rain and cool weather, while Mother's Day demand has increased, causing the price spike—a short-term adjustment based on supply and market demand.
"For consumers buying jasmine or garlands for Mother's Day, please compare prices, quality, size, and quantity before deciding," Chirawut advised. "You don't need to buy from the first shop you find, as prices vary by quality and cost. Comparing options helps you get fair value and meet your budget."
The department has instructed business operators to display prices clearly and transparently so consumers can easily check and compare before purchase. Prices shown must match the sale price, and vendors should charge reasonable rates aligned with costs and market conditions, avoiding excessive markups during high-demand periods.
If the department finds abnormally high prices or receives complaints of price gouging, it will investigate the facts and vendor costs. If found guilty of overpricing without justification, the case may violate the 2542 BE Price of Goods and Services Act, carrying penalties of up to 7 years imprisonment, a fine up to 140,000 baht, or both.
The Internal Trade Department will continue monitoring flower and Mother's Day-related product sales to ensure fair, transparent trading. Consumers who spot unmarked prices, mismatched advertised prices, or unfair practices can report to the department's hotline at 1569 or their provincial commerce office.
