CHIANG RAI –Provincial inspectors have issued a stern warning to households and business owners across the province over underfilled tanks following a targeted sting operation on cooking gas retailers.
The Weights and Measures Office Branch revealed that several shops have been caught selling underfilled cylinders, a practice officials say directly “cheats” the public and drives up the daily cost of living.
During a recent sweep of six major gas retailers, inspectors discovered that 50% of the businesses visited violated national standards. Out of the six sites inspected, three were found to be selling gas cylinders where the actual weight of the fuel did not match the amount printed on the label.
Immediate Fines and Legal Action
The Weights and Measures Office did not let the offenders off with a simple warning. Acting under the Weights and Measures Act B.E. 2542 (1999), specifically Sections 85 and 88, officials imposed the maximum immediate administrative penalties.
- Violations Found: 3 businesses
- Individual Fines: 10,000 baht per offender
- Total Penalties: 30,000 baht
“This is a direct hit to the pockets of everyday citizens,” said one official during the inspection. “When a family pays for 15 kilograms of gas, they must receive 15 kilograms. Anything less is a calculated attempt to increase profits at the expense of the consumer.”
The Weights and Measures Office, Region 1-7 (Chiang Rai), uses high-precision scales to verify the “net weight” of the gas. This process involves weighing the cylinder and subtracting the “tare weight” (the weight of the empty metal tank) to ensure the gas inside matches the advertised volume.
The three businesses found in violation failed this basic test. Beyond the fines, these businesses have been placed on a “watch list” and were proactively advised on how to recalibrate their filling processes to meet packaging standards.
Protecting the Public Interest
Cooking gas is a fundamental necessity for Thai households and small street-food vendors. With fluctuating energy prices already putting pressure on the economy, underfilled tanks represent a hidden “tax” on the poor.
The Department of Internal Trade (DIT) emphasizes that maintaining accurate weights is not just a suggestion—it is a legal requirement. Officials noted that even a small shortage in each tank can lead to significant illegal gains for a retailer over time, while the customer is left wondering why their gas ran out sooner than expected.
The Weights and Measures Office, Region 1-7, confirmed that this was not a one-time event. The province will see a surge in continuous random inspections in the coming months.
“Any violations or intentional weight fraud will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law immediately,” the office stated in an official release.
Retailers are encouraged to check their equipment regularly and ensure that their suppliers are providing full-weight cylinders. Ignorance of the weight discrepancy is rarely accepted as a valid defense under the law.
How to Protect Yourself as a Consumer
While most gas retailers operate honestly, the recent fines prove that some are willing to cut corners. Officials suggest the following tips for consumers:
- Check the Seal: Ensure the plastic seal on the tank valve is intact and has not been tampered with.
- Look for the Label: Every tank must clearly state the net weight of the gas and the weight of the empty cylinder (tare weight).
- Use Trusted Vendors: Buy from reputable dealers who have a history of fair service.
- Report Suspicious Tanks: If your gas lasts significantly less time than usual under normal usage, it may be underfilled.
Public cooperation is vital in catching dishonest businesses. If you suspect you have been sold an underfilled gas tank or any other product with an incorrect weight, you can take action.
The public is requested to report any suspicious or incorrect product quantities to the Department of Internal Trade (DIT) hotline at 1569. This service is managed by the Ministry of Commerce and allows for the rapid deployment of inspectors to investigate claims.
The government remains committed to ensuring fair trade practices, ensuring that when you pay for a full tank, you get exactly what you paid for.
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