The Government is intensifying price controls and planning to expand controlled goods to help ease the cost of living for the people amid the tensions in the Middle East.

In a press briefing, held by the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East on 25 March 2026, Mr. Nantapong Chiralerspong, Director-General of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Commerce, stated that consumer goods remain “sufficient in quantity” and “prices are largely stable,” although certain items have experienced increases in line with rising costs, such as pork, chicken, eggs, and plastic packaging. 

He said that the Ministry of Commerce is preparing to propose to the Central Committee on the Price of Goods and Services an increase in the number of “controlled goods” from 59 items to 71 items, adding 12 new categories, such as bottled drinking water and plastic pellets. 

It also plans to expand the list of goods requiring prior approval before price adjustments from 8 items to 21 items, adding 13 additional items, such as tissue paper, soap, shampoo, and other daily necessities. These measures aim to enhance the effectiveness and comprehensiveness of price regulation.

Regarding the current situation in the Middle East, Mr. Panidone Pachimsawat, Acting Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the situation in the region remains tense, with retaliatory attacks between the main parties continuing. There have also been strikes targeting Gulf countries, most of which have been intercepted.

Following the U.S. President's announcement affirming that diplomatic negotiations with Iran remain ongoing, despite Iran’s denial, there are reports that the U.S. has submitted a 15-point proposal to negotiate with Iran. The proposal includes provisions to ensure the permanent reopening of maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran stated that the Strait of Hormuz has remained closed, but vessels from friendly countries may be permitted safe passage.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs held a telephone conversation with the Ambassador of Iran to Thailand regarding the joint Iran-Oman operation to assist the three crew members who remain aboard the cargo vessel Mayurinaree. A confirmation of the status of the three crew members is still pending. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will provide updates as soon as further information becomes available.

Thailand reiterates the importance of ensuring the safety of commercial navigation through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law. One Thai oil tanker has safely passed through the Strait and is en route to Thailand, while another vessel is awaiting passage.