A survey of food prices in Chonburi over the Chinese New Year holidays showed an expected rise over the normal prices before the holidays. Fruit prices were up 5-10 Baht a kilo. Pork up about 30 Baht a kilo. Chicken and duck up by between 10 and 30 Baht a piece and similar rises in vegetables across the board. Market vendors blamed high demand especially for high quality foods.
It is the norm in Thailand for market vendors to celebrate any holiday by jacking up the prices. Up to you if you want to pay these inflated prices but we all got to eat.
Price increases or price gouging is nothing new. It happens all over the world. Remember in Thailand to negotiate or barter at every opportunity. Speaking a little Thai is useful but even more useful is a simple smile. Yes there is a dual price system for Thais and farangs. However for food purchases this doesn't seem to be the norm anymore. Market vendors seem pretty fair to me.
