Two years ago it was uncertainty about rising flood waters.
This year, consumption is up 23 percent as residents have begun hoarding food and necessities due to uncertainty about the political situation, according to the Thai Chamber of Commerce University.
Although it remains to be seen if the recent street unrest will abate or continue, large quantities of food such as instant noodles and vegetable oil are being snatched up from supermarkets across the capital by those who fear more severe consequences could result, said Wachira Koontaweethep, a director at the university.
During the 2010 unrest, mobility was limited in some areas of the city due to curfews, roadblocks and a lack of safety, he said.
The situation is unlikely to result in any shortages, he added.
ALthough Commerce Minister Yanyong Phuangrat dismissed the reports of hoarding as mere rumor, he said the Department of Internal Trade has been instructed to make sure commerce is running smoothly and fairly, Khaosod reported.
Photo: Siwaporn Wongchaiyakul
