The Commerce Ministry is preparing to expand its list of price-controlled goods by 12 items, increasing the total from 59 to 71, in a move aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures. The Department of Internal Trade (DIT) will submit the proposal to the Committee on the Price of Goods and Services on March 25. The new additions are expected to focus mainly on everyday essentials to strengthen oversight amid fluctuating input costs.
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The move follows ongoing government efforts to manage rising consumer prices and protect households from economic strain. According to Wittayakorn Maneenetr, director-general of the DIT, the ministry is closely monitoring goods under the current system. Of the existing 59 controlled items, eight require prior approval before any price increase, while 22 require businesses to notify authorities of price changes, with some also subject to transport reporting requirements.
Authorities have already tightened controls on six essential household products, namely toilet paper and tissues, shampoo, laundry detergent and cleaning liquids, dishwashing products, sanitary pads and soap. These items were recently shifted from notification-only rules to stricter measures requiring approval before any price increase. The ministry is also considering expanding the list of goods requiring prior approval to around 13 items, pending committee review.
The proposed expansion reflects broader policy efforts to stabilise consumer prices and ensure transparency in the market. By increasing the number of controlled goods and tightening regulations on key essentials, the government aims to limit sudden price hikes and provide greater protection for consumers. These measures are being implemented alongside other economic tools to address cost volatility.
The Nation reported that the Commerce Ministry plans to finalise the expanded list promptly after committee consideration on March 25. The proposal, chaired by the Commerce Minister, is expected to enhance the effectiveness of price-control mechanisms. Further announcements on the final list and implementation details will follow once approval is granted.
Picture courtesy of The Nation
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 24 Mar 2026