Bangkok: "Chatuporn" visited Chatuchak Market to revive the market and bring it back to life. Chatuporn visited Chatuchak Weekend Market to encourage vendors and promote the renovation and revitalization of this Thai landmark, and to encourage Thais to help stimulate the economy. Mr. Chatuporn Burapat, Minister of Commerce, visited Chatuchak Weekend Market along with executives from the Ministry of Commerce and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to encourage vendors and discuss ways to revitalize this world-famous market.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chatuporn stated that while the current market atmosphere may be sluggish due to a decline in tourist numbers, Chatuchak Market remains a significant landmark attracting tourists from around the world. He added that the market needs to be upgraded to a more attractive product, service, and atmosphere, to attract tourists back and boost sales for vendors.
Mr. Chatuporn discussed with the District Office Director the process of improving market infrastructure, such as landscaping, restrooms, safety, and space organization, to enhance tourist convenience. Furthermore, a clear map of product zones will be developed, and multilingual volunteers will be considered to facilitate tourist transportation and parking, particularly for buses and large vehicles. Mr. Chatuporn acknowledged that there are still limitations that need to be addressed comprehensively to facilitate both tourists and vendors.
The Ministry of Commerce is also preparing to promote the development of online platforms to expand distribution channels and explore the feasibility of exporting products to international markets, increasing revenue opportunities for Thai entrepreneurs. Chatuchak Market is a source of pride for Thailand, and the Ministry of Commerce is fully committed to supporting its thriving market and its revitalization as a global trade and tourism hub.
Inspections revealed a wide variety of products at reasonable prices, and high-quality food. However, Chatuchak Market has been instructed to strictly monitor any products that do not match the price tag or are of substandard quality. Meanwhile, the Department of Internal Trade has deployed patrol officers to inspect product quality, fair prices, and the accuracy of scales to build consumer and tourist confidence. Furthermore, essential daily products must not be in short supply and must be sold at affordable prices to protect consumers and ensure fairness in the market.
"I'd like to invite Thais to come and support this beautiful place, as it aligns with the Ministry of Commerce's 'Thai Made, Thai Used, Thai Help Thai' policy, which aims to provide opportunities for Thais to trade and generate income together," said Mr. Chatuporn.