Phuket provincial commerce officials have inspected vendors at Patong Beach after reports that coconuts were being sold to tourists for 150 baht each, raising concerns over pricing standards in a key tourist area. Authorities found most sellers displaying clear price signs, typically listing coconuts at 100 baht per fruit. The inspection aims to protect consumers and maintain the island’s tourism image.
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The investigation followed a viral TikTok post claiming a coconut purchase at 150 baht, prompting questions about fair pricing. On 24 April, Ms Woranit Apiratchirawong, Phuket Provincial Commerce Officer, assigned a joint team with Patong Municipality officials to conduct spot checks along the beachfront. Officers reviewed pricing displays and spoke with vendors about cost structures and sales practices.
Vendors told officials that coconut costs range between 30 and 40 baht per fruit depending on transport and seasonal factors. Additional expenses include ice for cooling, labour, and losses from unsold stock, which typically must be discarded within three days. These factors were cited to justify retail pricing, though most sellers were found to comply with the 100 baht level.
Local operators also explained that beachfront sales are organised into zones managed by community enterprise groups. However, authorities acknowledged that unauthorised individuals may have infiltrated the area to sell goods without permission. Officials said enforcement would be stepped up to prevent such activity and avoid damage to Phuket’s tourism reputation.
To standardise practices, the Phuket Provincial Commerce Office has coordinated with Patong Municipality to hold meetings with all operators between 27 and 30 April 2026. The sessions will reinforce compliance with the Central Committee on Prices of Goods and Services Announcement No. 68 (2025) regarding mandatory price display. Violations of pricing regulations or failure to follow the law will result in penalties applied in stages.
Daily News reported that authorities say the move is intended to ensure transparency, fair pricing, and consistency across vendors as Phuket continues to attract large numbers of international visitors.
Picture courtesy of Daily News
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 26 Apr 2026
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