Bangkok: Supajee Suthamphan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, has confirmed that the Cabinet will convene on April 11 to finalize a cost-of-living relief package aimed at assisting citizens impacted by the ongoing Middle East crisis. The Ministry of Energy will oversee oil price management, while palm oil exports will require permits to prevent shortages. Although general fertilizers and plastics are not in short supply, Supajee expressed concerns over pricing, with urea fertilizer supplies expected to last until May.
According to Thai News Agency, during a government policy statement to parliament, Supajee addressed concerns raised by MPs and Senators regarding urgent government policies. She acknowledged the Middle East crisis's geopolitical complexities and its impact on the nation's economy, emphasizing the government's commitment to addressing these challenges. The proposed policies aim to reduce living costs, boost income, distribute opportunities, and ensure access to essential goods.
The government is working to provide timely access to essential consumer goods through the "Thai Helps Thai" policy, collaborating with businesses nationwide. This initiative includes supplying essential products from major manufacturers to smaller businesses at discounts of up to 58%. These products are available year-round through government-subsidized "Blue Flag" outlets, mobile units, educational institutions, and 1,000 markets. The Cabinet meeting on April 11 will reveal further details of these measures.
Regarding essential goods price control, Supajee explained that the Goods and Services Control Act currently lists 59 controlled items, including oil. Price increases for controlled goods require permission or prior notification. She stressed that consumer goods regulation should follow reasonable market mechanisms, balancing the interests of producers and consumers, and not every issue can be strictly controlled.
On palm oil controls, Supajee stated that export permits are required to prevent shortages while supporting biodiesel use. The current palm fruit price shows an upward trend, and the government focuses on maintaining stock levels rather than controlling prices. She also elaborated on the measures for controlling oil, medicines, transportation services, and sugar prices, using specific laws for each item.
Additionally, Supajee addressed the inclusion of animal feed corn in the controlled goods list, focusing on quantity control to avoid meat price impacts. She acknowledged the urea fertilizer stock situation, emphasizing coordination with the Fertilizer Trade Association and the Ministry of Commerce's "Green Flag" project offering special prices.
The proposed "Half-Price Fertilizer Project" will involve the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives ensuring urea fertilizer supply tailored to soil needs. Despite limited stock, efforts to secure alternative sources and negotiate passage for stranded fertilizer shipments continue. Supajee also highlighted ongoing actions against price gouging, urging public reports to the Ministry of Commerce hotline.
On plastic pellets, Supajee explained their classification as controlled goods due to the Middle East crisis, with efforts to coordinate with various ministries to find supplementary raw material sources and promote economical plastic use. She expressed confidence in managing the situation while addressing price concerns and seeking supply chain cooperation.