Phuket –
The Phuket Provincial Commerce Office has addressed public concerns over a ceramic shop in the Old Town charging visitors a 40-baht entry fee, stating that the practice complies with consumer protection laws as long as conditions are clearly displayed.
Supansa Chuaychana, Head of the Trade Regulation and Development Division told the Phuket Express that officials inspected the shop on Yaowarat Road after receiving reports on February 15th. The inspection confirmed that the shop had posted signs in Thai, English, and Chinese at the entrance, notifying customers of the entry fee. Importantly, the fee could be redeemed as a discount when purchasing items.
Officials reminded the business owner to exercise caution, noting that inappropriate practices could harm Phuket’s tourism image. The shop pledged to strictly comply with the Central Committee on the Prices of Goods and Services Notification No. 68 (2025), which governs the display of product prices and service charges.
Under Thai law, businesses may charge service fees provided that conditions are clearly communicated at the point of entry. However, the Commerce Office stressed that operators must remain sensitive to customer perceptions to avoid damaging Phuket’s reputation as a welcoming tourist destination.
The Phuket Commerce Office will continue discussions with relevant agencies and report to the Ministry of Commerce to ensure strict enforcement of consumer protection standards.
