Thailand Takes Action Against Influx Of Cheap Trousers With Traditional Patterns

6-2-2024 (BANGKOK) Thailand’s Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has directed the Customs Department to devise strategies to curb the flood of inexpensive trousers featuring traditional Thai cat and elephant motifs.

Mr Phumtham, who also serves as deputy prime minister, highlighted that the replicated versions of the cat and elephant trousers from China lack the exact copyrighted patterns and are of notably inferior quality.

“I need to explore how copyright laws can be utilised to safeguard the original products from these substandard items from China,” stated the minister.

Elephant trousers, also referred to as Thai fisherman or Aladdin pants, stand as a sought-after souvenir from Thailand. The prevalent design showcases elephants, reflecting the cultural significance of these majestic creatures in Thai society.

Manufactured predominantly in Chiang Mai, elephant trousers boast wide-legged styles with a relaxed silhouette, making them a comfortable choice in hot climates and hence favoured by foreigners.

Mr Phumtham underscored that the elephant and cat trousers have been copyrighted in Thailand. The Commerce Ministry became aware of the Chinese imitations only after journalists raised concerns with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin during a recent interview.

The minister has tasked the Intellectual Property Department with assessing the prevalence of counterfeit trousers in Thailand, and instructed the Customs Department to monitor imports from China.

“However, these measures must ensure minimal impact on Thai products,” he added.

Furthermore, Mr Phumtham directed the Department of International Trade Promotion to encourage local manufacturers to consider incorporating “Made in Thailand” stamps or logos on their products.

Reports indicate that cheap elephant trousers from China are readily available at Bangkok’s Bobae wholesale market and retail stalls in the Pratunam area, priced at about half the cost of authentic items.

Ms Kingkarn Samorn, employed at an elephant trouser factory in Chiang Mai, expressed minimal concern regarding the counterfeit Chinese products. She asserted that her factory produces trousers of far superior quality. Additionally, she highlighted that the factory offers over 10 designs with more than 200 patterns.