Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun sought to reassure the public that consumer goods prices continue to remain stable. To help lessen the impact of rising global energy prices, the government is maintaining a cap on diesel at 33 baht (~US$1.02) per liter, with a gradual increase of 50 satang (~US$0.015) per liter to take effect from 18 March. Importantly, operators in each of the eight controlled goods categories — including instant noodles, canned fish, milk powder, fertilizers, and animal feed — have not requested any increases in prices.

“We believe there is currently no need for consumer goods price increases. If you notice any pricing concerns, please contact hotline 1569 and rest assured that we will address the matter promptly,” said the minister.

On the agricultural front, Thailand's fertilizer stockpile is sufficient through May this year, and potentially through August if pending shipments from the Middle East are cleared. The Ministry is also expanding the "Thong Khiao," or “Green Flag” project to ease costs for farmers, promoting formula adjustments to reduce reliance on imported inputs, and encouraging the use of organic fertilizers.

For plastic pellet raw materials, current stocks are sufficient for approximately four months, with alternative suppliers being sourced from Malaysia, Brunei, and other non-Middle East countries.

The Ministry pledges to monitor the situation closely and introduce additional measures swiftly should energy costs or supply chains shift further.