Report Clear Pricing Mandate: Thai Restaurants Face 10,000 Baht Fines

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In a decisive move to ensure transparency, the Department of Internal Trade (DIT) has mandated that restaurants across Thailand adhere to clear pricing guidelines. Non-compliance could result in fines reaching up to 10,000 baht.

 

The directive comes under the Central Committee on the Price of Goods and Services Notification No. 68, issued in accordance with the Price of Goods and Services Act 1999. This initiative aims to eliminate misunderstandings and streamline the customer experience by requiring restaurants to display prices in a clear, comprehensive manner.

 

The DIT’s announcement lays out specific criteria for how prices should be displayed:

 

• Prices must be clearly visible, whether written or printed on any material.
• Each item must display a per-unit price using Arabic numerals. Additional languages are allowed alongside the Thai text.
• Menus must include item names in Thai, with translations into other languages as an option.
• Any extra charges, such as service fees or VAT, need to be conspicuously listed next to the base price, ensuring these are fully understood by the customer before any purchase is made.
• The displayed prices must match the actual selling prices, except when the actual price is lower.

 

Restaurants that fail to comply with these price display regulations risk facing fines of up to 10,000 baht. This penalty is stipulated under Section 40 of the Price of Goods and Services Act 1999, highlighting the government's commitment to enforcement.

 

This move is designed to empower consumers, allowing them to make informed decisions by comparing costs easily. For businesses, particularly restaurants, it serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of transparency and accuracy in pricing.

 

As the initiative rolls out nationwide, the challenge will lie in ensuring all establishments, from small local eateries to large chain restaurants, understand and implement these regulations effectively. The DIT’s announcement might prompt a wave of updates as restaurant owners strive to avoid penalties.

 

For the dining public, this regulatory push represents a welcome change, promising enhanced clarity and fairness. Customers can expect fewer disputes over billing discrepancies, fostering a trustful environment between diners and restaurateurs.

 

The focus now shifts to the compliance period. It remains to be seen how swiftly and efficiently restaurants will adapt to these stipulations. However, the government's stern approach underscores its dedication to protecting consumer rights and fostering a transparent market environment.

 

In conclusion, this decisive step by the DIT, backed by the potential for hefty fines, underscores a broader strategy to uphold standards and build consumer trust within Thailand’s vibrant dining scene. As the landscape shifts, both businesses and customers stand to gain from a fairer, clearer approach to pricing.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-08-19