Thai vendor prices masks above legal limit
The outbreak of COVID-19 resulted in panic-buying and stockpiling of supplies across the globe. Toilet paper, anti-bacterial soaps, alcohol gel and especially, surgical masks were considered a luxury.
With the recent spike in Coronavirus cases across Thailand, citizens are back at it again with buying surgical masks in bulk.
A convenience store manager in Trang tried to take advantage of the rise in demand by selling surgical masks at ฿10/piece, reported Khaosod English.
Thai government imposed price caps
In 1999, the Royal Thai Government passed the Price of Goods and Services Act places a price cap on masks at ฿2.5/piece. Violators of the law can face up to 5 years in prison.
Haute couture, Spring Season: Gloves, face shields, surgical masks and gowns were sold out within weeks
Image credit: @pitchaben
Image for illustration purposes only
Earlier this year, seven vendors were prosecuted for the same crime.
Keeping up with community guidelines
With a possible second wave ensuing, the Government has asked that citizens who witness a surcharge of masks and other goods to contact the Department of Internal Trade’s hotline 1569
Featured image adapted from: The Nation
Image for illustration purposes only
Enjoying The Smart Local Thailand? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more stories like this.