Bangkok: The Prime Minister has emphasized the importance of addressing the supply and pricing of consumer goods in the southern regions to prevent shortages and inflation. This directive comes in response to the recent severe flooding that has impacted several southern provinces.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pichai Naripthaphan, the Minister of Commerce, stated that the Ministry of Commerce, under the orders of Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, the Prime Minister, has initiated the “Caravan of relief bags to help flood victims in the South.” This initiative aims to provide immediate support to those affected by the flooding in six severely affected provinces: Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, and other southern areas. The relief efforts include the preparation of measures to ensure consumer goods are available and affordable once the floodwaters recede.
Mr. Pichai further mentioned that the Prime Minister had instructed all ministries to expedite assistance efforts sin
ce learning about the flooding while in Chiang Mai. The Ministry of Commerce responded by swiftly assembling relief bags for the southern region, with deliveries expected to reach Songkhla by midnight and distribution to follow by noon the next day. The ministry stressed the importance of preventing shortages and excessive pricing to alleviate the challenges faced by the affected populations. Citizens are encouraged to report any incidents of hoarding or price gouging to the hotline 1569, and the Ministry of Commerce has assured immediate intervention.
Additionally, the Ministry of Commerce is collaborating with local department stores, both wholesale and retail, to prepare for the post-flood period, ensuring a steady supply of goods. Recovery measures will include the establishment of Blue Flags to provide essential items at reduced prices, particularly cleaning products necessary for flood recovery. Mr. Pichai highlighted the previous success of similar initiatives in the northern regions, where Blue Flags
offered affordable consumer goods and cleaning supplies to aid in recovery efforts.
The Prime Minister’s orders from Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai emphasized the urgency of comprehensive assistance and rehabilitation. The Ministry of Commerce has established a special center to coordinate flood relief efforts, partnering with the private sector to deliver aid. Post-flood recovery projects are already underway, with local department stores reducing prices and providing essential repair equipment through the Blue Flag program to help reduce the cost of living during this challenging time.