Bangkok: *Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, has successfully closed a deal with a children's swimming school that defaulted on course fees and cited unforeseen conditions, emphasizing that "expired courses are not an excuse!" She has urged the school to refund parents within 15 days.*
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Suphamas Isarabhakdi, in her role as supervisor of the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), disclosed the outcome of efforts to assist consumers in a case involving a swimming course for their child that was unexpectedly closed, with the refusal of a refund based on course expiration. She tasked Mr. Pradermchai Boonchuaylue, Advisor to the Minister, and Ms. Patcharin Samsiripong, Secretary to the Minister, with ongoing monitoring and reporting of the situation. Additionally, Mr. Ronnarong Poolpipat, Secretary-General of the OCPB, was instructed to promptly investigate and negotiate with the business. A resolution was achieved within one day, shortening the refund period from the initial 60-120 days to just 15 days.
This initiative is part of the government's policy under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, which aims to manage living costs, especially concerning children and families. Consumers often pay upfront for services, necessitating transparent information about terms and conditions before purchase.
In February 2026, a complainant bought a 10-session swimming lesson course for their child, only attending two sessions before the branch closed without notice. The complainant was offered a transfer to a distant branch but requested a refund for the unused sessions. Initially informed of a 60 to 120-day wait, the complainant later learned that the course expired after six months-a fact not disclosed at purchase. A complaint was filed with the Consumer Protection Board on August 10, 2026. Officials immediately investigated, inspected the site, and negotiated with the manager on August 11, 2026. A resolution was agreed upon to refund all unused sessions within 15 days, which the complainant accepted.
Ms. Suphamas stressed that course expiration is not a valid reason to deny consumer rights. She saw no justification for a 120-day wait for refunds when facts were clear and a settlement achievable. Consequently, she directed the Consumer Protection Board to investigate and ensure timely consumer refunds.
She also directed the CPB to oversee the refund process and expand investigations into businesses offering prepaid courses for children and families. This includes evaluating whether these businesses inform consumers about key terms such as course duration, branch usage, and refund rights. Immediate legal action will be taken if unfair terms or lack of disclosure is found. The CPB is increasing on-site visits and direct negotiations to expedite consumer complaint resolutions.
Ms. Suphamas advised parents to inquire about course validity, branch usage, and refund processes before purchasing courses for their children. She urged consumers to retain receipts and contracts as evidence and to file complaints if necessary. Complaints can be submitted via the OCPB hotline 1166, the OCPB Connect application, the website www.ocpb.go.th, and the Damrongtham Center in every province.