Bangkok: The director of Huai Khwang district has mandated the display of stickers proclaiming "This shop accepts Thai baht currency scanning" following a controversy involving a Chinese restaurant that allegedly refused to accept Thai baht.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sombat Kreukiritham, Director of Huai Khwang District, announced developments regarding the Chinese restaurant located in Soi Pracha Rat Bamphen after receiving complaints that it demanded Chinese yuan instead of Thai baht for payments. Upon receiving the complaint, district officials promptly investigated the issue and coordinated with environmental and sanitation officers to inspect restaurants along Soi Pracha Rat Bamphen, ensuring compliance with legal payment methods.
On Pracha Rat Bamrung Road, district staff distributed stickers to 79 Chinese-owned restaurants, indicating their acceptance of Thai baht. This initiative extended to 13 Chinese-owned supermarkets in the area. Inspections revealed that the Chinese restaurant involved in the controversy had displayed QR codes linked to Thai bank accounts for transactions. On the incident day, a bank transfer malfunction led the restaurant staff to inquire if the customer had cash, which led to a misunderstanding. The customer eventually paid 328 baht via QR code to the restaurant's Thai account.
The restaurant's Chinese owner clarified they have never accepted yuan, affirming that all revenue is directed to Thai bank accounts. Today, inspections of several establishments on Pracha Rat Bamrung Road confirmed that only Thai baht, either in cash or bank transfers, is accepted. While some tourists attempted to pay with yuan, shops did not accept it due to fluctuating exchange rates.
To address the issue, the district will issue certified stickers to affirm the acceptance of Thai baht payments. These stickers will be affixed to eligible restaurants starting tomorrow, reinforcing customer confidence. Over 80% of the restaurants are legally registered and have been inspected by the Ministry of Commerce, ensuring they possess the necessary permits. Regular inspections by the district continue to maintain compliance.