Bangkok Implements New Rules for Thai Street Vendors
Bangkok authorities have rolled out new regulations governing street vending to prioritize Thai nationals and improve safety standards in the city’s bustling markets. These regulations will only take effect following the Thai Royal Gazette publication on them. These regulations aim to ensure that street vending primarily benefits economically disadvantaged Thai citizens, specifically those receiving government welfare support.
Under the new rules, only individuals classified as “poor Thais” are permitted to operate street stalls. Bangkok street vendors must hold Thai nationality and possess a government welfare card. Furthermore, they can only have an annual income that does not exceed THB 300,000 (approximately USD 9,060) after business-related deductions. This income cap ensures that only those with genuine financial needs can engage in street vending. In addition, each vendor is allowed to hire one sales assistant, who must also be a Thai national. The new rules now prohibit the employment of migrant workers to keep these opportunities within the local population. This was a common practice in the past. Bangkok vendors would typically hire Laotian, Cambodian or Burmese workers.
New stringent safety rules in Bangkok from Thai authorities
Along with financial and nationality requirements, the new rules impose strict space and safety measures. The new rules limit stall size to three square meters. Furthermore, they must maintain a pedestrian walkway of 1.5 to 2 meters, depending on the width of the street. Bangkok street vendors must set back their stalls at least 50 centimetres from the road. Finally, an emergency exit space of three meters must be provided for every ten stalls. These measures aim to enhance the safety and organization of street markets, particularly in high-traffic areas like Chinatown.
Additionally, the new rules require vendors to obtain permission from public health authorities to ensure they comply with health and safety standards. These regulations reflect the Bangkok administration’s effort to balance the preservation of the city’s street market culture with modern urban management, while supporting its poorest citizens. By prioritizing Thai nationals and enforcing strict guidelines, the authorities aim to create a more organized, safer, and fairer street vending environment.
