The Bangkok government has recently introduced a set of strict new regulations aimed at controlling street vending in the city’s historic Chinatown district.
Under these regulations, only individuals identified as “poor Thais” are allowed to operate street stalls, with a ban on employing migrant workers.
The intention behind this policy is to ensure that street vending directly benefits the native population, particularly those who are economically disadvantaged.
To be eligible to vend, individuals must meet specific criteria, including possessing Thai nationality and holding a government-issued welfare card, which indicates their eligibility for state support.
Additionally, vendors must be managing payments for housing with the National Housing Authority and receiving welfare allowances from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security.
Financial criteria stipulate that a vendor’s annual income, after business-related expenses are deducted, must not exceed THB300,000 (approximately USD 9,060).
The rules also allow each vendor to hire one sales assistant, who must also be a Thai national.
Vendors are required to obtain permission from public health authorities to ensure they meet health and safety standards.
Each stall must maintain a clear walkway of 1.5 to 2 meters based on the street width, and the stall size is limited to three square meters.
For public safety, stalls must be positioned at least 50 centimeters from the road, and every ten stalls must have an emergency exit space of at least three meters.
These measures are designed to enhance safety and organization within the vibrant street market scene in Bangkok. The regulations will take effect once they are published in the Thai Royal Gazette.
