Bangkok: Jasmine flowers for Mother's Day are being sold for as much as 1,000 baht, prompting the Commerce Ministry to caution vendors against exploiting the situation. Mr. Jirawut Suwannach, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, led officials to inspect jasmine flower sales at central markets.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suwannach conducted a survey at Pak Khlong Talat 2 in Taling Chan and Yod Piman Market in Phra Nakhon, revealing an increase in demand for jasmine flowers and garlands ahead of Mother's Day. This year's reduced production has led to a significant rise in prices, aligning with market conditions.
The survey showed that large, grade A fresh jasmine flowers retail for about 1,000 baht per liter, while wholesale prices hover around 850 baht. Regular fresh jasmine flowers are priced between 750-1,000 baht per liter, depending on various factors such as size and freshness. Additionally, fresh jasmine garlands vary in price, with large sizes costing 200-300 baht, medium sizes 50-100 baht, and small sizes 35-50 baht per garland.
The deputy director-general explained that most jasmine flowers in the market originate from Nakhon Sawan and Kamphaeng Phet provinces. Adverse weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures, have resulted in fewer blooms, leading to a price surge during the Mother's Day period. This has caused a short-term price increase due to a combination of increased production and heightened demand.
The Department of Internal Trade advises consumers to compare prices, quality, size, and quantity across multiple shops to find products that suit their needs and budget. Vendors are instructed to display prices clearly and maintain consistency in pricing to prevent excessive price hikes due to increased demand.
The department warns that if businesses are found selling goods at unjustifiably high prices, they may face legal consequences under the Price Control and Service Act B.E. 2542 (1999), which includes penalties of up to 7 years imprisonment, a fine of 140,000 baht, or both.
Consumers can report any instances of price gouging or shops not displaying price tags to the Department of Internal Trade hotline at 1569 or to provincial commerce offices for investigation and legal action.