Down in front: Movie prices probed

Down in front: Movie prices probed

The Internal Trade Department says it will step in to help lower the prices of movie tickets and popcorn sold at theatres.

The move comes after a request by the Consumer Protection Board (CPB), which asked the department to look at the operating costs of cinemas to see whether they were justified in selling tickets, snacks and drinks at high prices.

The decision was reached at a Tuesday meeting with officials of several agencies and cinema operators including Major Cineplex and SF Cinema after many moviegoers lodged complaints with the CPB over costly items.

"Although movies are not on the price-controlled list, we do have a law barring any business from making excessive profits off consumers," said Santichai Santawanpas, deputy director-general of the Internal Trade Department.

Violators of the Prices of Goods and Services Act could face a 140,000-baht fine, seven years in jail or both.

"We'll look into the costs and determine whether the prices are justified," said Mr Santichai.

CPB secretary-general Jirachai Moontongroy said cinema operators have defended ticket prices by citing the costly rights paid to movie production houses, mostly from abroad.

They said popcorn is an imported snack and must be sold at a high price.

Consumers have complained that tickets cost 140-240 baht and a set of popcorn with a drink is 150-200 baht.

The operators vow to offer cheaper options and address the lengthy period of ads and previews before screenings.

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