The Department of Internal Trade has issued a directive to provincial commerce officials, tasking them with the inspection of made-to-order food outlets following reports of exploitative pricing practices. The spotlight fell on a restaurant in Pattaya, Chonburi Province, which allegedly charged an exorbitant 70 baht for a simple dish of rice accompanied by two fried eggs.
This move comes in response to concerns over the establishment’s pricing strategy, deemed excessive, coupled with the absence of transparent price signage. Depending on the outcome of the investigation, legal actions may be pursued. Consumers are encouraged to report any instances of exploitation to the hotline 1569.
Udom Srisomsong, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, revealed that provincial commerce officials are slated to conduct an inspection of the said restaurant within the week. Initial assessments indicate that while the average price for similar quick meal dishes hovers around 70 baht, charging such an amount for a basic fare of rice with two fried eggs is considered unjust. Furthermore, the restaurant’s failure to prominently display a comprehensive price list, opting instead for a menu devoid of clear pricing details, has raised eyebrows.
The ultimate verdict hinges on the findings of today’s inspection. Should deliberate malpractice be confirmed, legal recourse under the statutes governing pricing of products and services will be pursued. Penalties for infractions such as the non-display of price tags could result in fines of up to 10,000 baht, while instances of overpricing may carry penalties of imprisonment for up to seven years and/or fines reaching 140,000 baht.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any instances of unfair practices by contacting hotline 1569, with decisions made based on meticulously gathered facts and evidence.
