The Ministry of Commerce has announced that it is now closely monitoring prices in 18 categories during the second half of the year due to a rise of up to 9% in transport expenses for the logistics sector.
The categories under scrutiny include instant noodles, fresh food, canned food, bagged rice, seasoning sauce, vegetable oil, carbonated drinks, milk and dairy products, electrical appliances, laundry products, fertilizers, insecticides, and pet food. Other categories include iron, cement, paper, medicine, medical services, retail, and wholesale.
Department of Internal Trade Director-General Wattanasak Sur-iam stated that while oil constitutes 40% of logistics business costs, the impact on product prices varies depending on the weight and quantity of the goods. The ministry urges business operators to maintain their product prices to align with government policy, as most operators prefer to stimulate consumption rather than raise prices, which could negatively affect sales.
With subsidies for liquefied petroleum gas set to expire this month, the department is also monitoring the prices of made-to-order food and fast food. The expiration of these subsidies is not expected to impact the cost per plate, as the prices of pork, eggs, and fresh vegetables have decreased, and chicken prices have remained stable compared to last year. (NNT)
