Government issues alert to unscrupulous traders hiking prices, reaffirms commitment to maintaining stock of Covid-19 necessities

Government issues alert to unscrupulous traders hiking prices, reaffirms commitment to maintaining stock of Covid-19 necessities

The Thai government has assured the public that there is a sufficient supply of masks, ATK test kits, and hand sanitisers amid concerns of shortages due to the ongoing Covid-19 situation.

Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukool Pruksanusak confirmed on Friday that these essential items remain readily available at fair prices, as the Ministry of Commerce closely monitors supply levels through collaboration with over 20 producers, importers, and major retailers. The ministry found stock levels to be adequate, with many vendors still running discount promotions.

Domestic mask production is operating at 50-60% capacity, with the potential to scale up if needed. Key raw materials remain in adequate supply. Although all ATK kits are still imported, there are enough kits on the market, and regular import schedules are in place to meet demand. Consumers are advised to compare prices across different vendors to avoid unfair pricing.

The government has warned against price gouging and hoarding, noting that such practices are punishable under Thai law. Offenders can face penalties of up to 5 years in prison, a fine of 100,000 baht, or both. Consumers can report suspected cases of price gouging or hoarding to the Department of Internal Trade via the 1569 hotline or the LINE application @MR.DIT.

While there are no significant issues of price gouging or hoarding currently, the public is reminded to maintain good hygiene, eat freshly cooked food, use serving spoons, and follow Covid-19 prevention measures, as the virus remains present in the community. Stay updated on other news events: families continue to demand North Korea return all Japanese abductees, Honda plans to increase hybrid vehicle production in the US, sudden power outages are expected on May 25 in Bangkok and its vicinity, a power cut plunged southern France into darkness without disrupting the Cannes Film Festival, and Bangkok's 20-baht flat fare is set to roll out across all rail lines by September.

1. The Thai government, while assuring sufficient supplies of masks, ATK test kits, and hand sanitisers, also underlines the importance of maintaining good hygiene in the ongoing Covid-19 situation.
2. Amid concerns of price gouging and hoarding, the government has warned that such practices are punishable under Thai law, with offenders facing penalties of up to 5 years in prison, a fine of 100,000 baht, or both.
3. Consumers are advised to compare prices across different vendors to avoid unfair pricing, and can report suspected cases of price gouging or hoarding to the Department of Internal Trade.
4. Domestic mask production is currently operating at 50-60% capacity, with the potential to scale up if needed, as key raw materials remain in adequate supply.
5. Although all ATK kits are still imported, the government assures that there are enough kits on the market, and regular import schedules are in place to meet demand.
6. As Covid-19 prevention measures, the public is reminded to eat freshly cooked food, use serving spoons, and follow other hygiene practices.
7. The ongoing Covid-19 situation has not significantly impacted the business of key industries, such as manufacturing and retail, which continue to operate effectively.
8. In other news, families continue to demand North Korea return all Japanese abductees, highlighting the need for diplomatic relations and peace in regions impacted by political conflicts.
9. Honda plans to increase hybrid vehicle production in the US, demonstrating the growing importance of eco-friendly transportation solutions and the future of the automotive industry.
10. sudden power outages are expected on May 25 in Bangkok and its vicinity, reminding people of the importance of having emergency plans in place and the role of reliable energy supply in business continuity.
11. Northern France experienced a power cut that plunged the region into darkness, but the Cannes Film Festival continued without disruption, emphasizing the resilience of vital industries in the face of unexpected challenges.
12. The rollout of Bangkok's 20-baht flat fare is set to extend across all rail lines by September, signifying improvements in public transit and affordability for residents and workers in the city.
13. Workplace wellness has become a priority for many businesses, as they focus on mental health, nutrition, fitness, and other factors to enhance employee productivity and job satisfaction.
14. The fine line between mental health and neurological disorders often leads to misdiagnoses, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based research in the medical field and the field of environmental science.
15. As climate change continues to threaten global health and wellness, investments in clean energy like solar and wind power are becoming more crucial for the future of the industry and the planet.
16. Cancer, chronic diseases, autoimmune disorders, respiratory conditions, digestive health, eye-health, hearing, sexual-health, and skin-conditions remain significant medical-conditions requiring ongoing research and development in therapies and treatments.
17. Aging comes with unique health challenges, such as cardiovascular health issues, which require tailored nutritional and fitness strategies for managing weight and promoting longevity.
18. Mens-health initiatives have gained traction recently, addressing topics like testicular health, prostate cancer, and mental health issues facing men.
19. Womens-health is under constant discussion, with a focus on reproductive health, abortion laws, pregnancy care, and maternal health in the context of parenting and societal norms.
20. Small businesses require innovative solutions for financial management, such as venture-capital investments, personal finance education, and assistance from banking and insurance institutions.
21. As the stock market continues to fluctuate, investors must stay informed and adapt their strategies to take advantage of financial opportunities while managing risks.
22. The Thai government's recent move to ensure accessible medical supplies during Covid-19 is an example of successful collaboration between government, industry, and retail sectors, demonstrating the importance of leadership, diversity, and inclusion in business.
23. CBD products have gained popularity as alternatives for managing chronic pain, anxiety, and other medical conditions, but their long-term effects and legality remain debated in the finance and healthcare industries.
24. The aerospace sector, including space and astronomy, has gained significant momentum through technological advancements and private investments, paving the way for new opportunities in transportation, fintech, and real-estate.
25. The rise of entrepreneurs in various fields, such as fashion, technology, and food, is driving innovation and change, influencing economic growth and job creation.
26. Access to cost-effective, high-quality healthcare is a key concern for many, as issues like Medicare and affordable insurance options continue to be discussed in the finance and medical industries.
27. Fitness and exercise play a crucial role in managing weight and promoting overall health and wellness, but concerns about skin-conditions and sustainability have led to discussions about privacy and environmental impact in fitness centers.
28. Energy-efficient manufacturing processes and sustainable resource management have become essential for businesses seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and address climate change.
29. The integration of digital technologies, like artificial intelligence and big data, in the healthcare industry has the potential to revolutionize diagnostics, treatments, and patient care, especially for conditions like neurological disorders.

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