Government Tightens Price Controls, Monitors Workers, Speeds Up Evacuation of Thais from the Middle East

The Joint Press Center on the Emergency Situation in the Middle East on 5 March 2026 reported updates on domestic price monitoring and assistance for Thai nationals in the region. Authorities confirmed that essential goods remain sufficient nationwide, while systems are in place to monitor Thai workers abroad and preparations are underway to evacuate Thai nationals from high-risk areas.

Mr. Goranij Nonejui, Inspector-General of the Ministry of Commerce and Deputy Spokesperson for the ministry, said recent inspections found no cost factors that would justify price increases. Goods remain adequately supplied and distribution continues as normal.

The Ministry of Commerce has coordinated with the Ministry of Interior, provincial governors, and relevant agencies to monitor product prices and fuel stations nationwide. The measures aim to prevent unjustified price hikes, curb stockpiling, and maintain public confidence.

In addition, the Department of Internal Trade has deployed inspection teams to monitor manufacturers, distributors, and retail stores across the country. Any violations will result in immediate legal action. Authorities are also closely monitoring cost structures, particularly those related to energy, transportation, raw materials, and packaging.

Meanwhile, Mr. Santi Nantasuwan, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labor and the ministry’s spokesperson, said a “War Room” has been established to monitor the situation and coordinate assistance for Thai workers in the Middle East. The ministry has also temporarily suspended the deployment of Thai workers to countries considered at risk in the region.

The Ministry of Labor is encouraging Thai workers to use the SMART TOEA application to enable location tracking and receive emergency information. Provincial labor offices have also visited workers’ families to provide information and assist with the application’s use, while evacuation plans are being prepared should the situation escalate.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also provided an update on assistance for Thai nationals in the Middle East. Mr. Panidone Pachimsawat, Acting Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that 117 Thai nationals in Iran have requested evacuation.

Of these, 68 people are scheduled to depart on 7 March 2026, while another 49 are scheduled for evacuation on 10 March 2026. Some are currently in the process of obtaining exit visas. Thai consular officials have already traveled to Turkey to prepare to receive the evacuees.

In Lebanon, the Royal Thai Embassy in Riyadh has advised Thai nationals to leave the country as soon as possible while commercial flights remain available.

In Bahrain, 917 Thai nationals have expressed their intention to return to Thailand. The first group of nine people has already crossed into Saudi Arabia to board flights back to Thailand, with additional groups expected to return over the next two to three days.

For Kuwait and Qatar, airspace remains closed and authorities are currently coordinating alternative evacuation routes.

All relevant agencies are providing full assistance. In addition, Thailand’s Department of Mental Health has launched a LINE Official Account to provide counseling and mental health support for Thai nationals affected by the situation. Authorities also urged Thai nationals to closely follow updates and official information released through government channels to remain informed of the latest developments and safety guidance.


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