Thai Merchants Petition TCCT Over E-Commerce Platform Fees, Logistics Limits
Thai online retailers have asked the Trade Competition Commission of Thailand (TCCT) to investigate major e-commerce platforms. Merchants allege anti-competitive actions, including rising fees and restricted logistics choices.
Merchants Allege Anti-Competitive Practices
Thai e-commerce merchants have petitioned the Trade Competition Commission of Thailand (TCCT), urging a probe into leading online marketplaces. They allege anti-competitive practices, including platform fee increases and restricted logistics options for sellers. Merchants also claim platforms impose business conditions that erode their profitability.
Online marketplaces have become indispensable channels for reaching consumers, weakening merchants' bargaining power, the group stated. The merchants argue these practices may constitute unfair treatment of business partners or restrictions on competition under Thailand's Trade Competition Act.
Rising Costs and Limited Control
Platforms recently increased service charges by three percentage points, pushing total fees above 30%, according to Pawoot Pongvitayapanu. Mr Pongvitayapanu chairs the House Subcommittee on Enhancing Thailand's Digital Competitiveness. Merchants also report having little control over pricing strategies, promotional campaigns, or selecting delivery companies.
This situation forces sellers to absorb rising operating costs. Thailand's e-commerce market remains dominated by a few large players with significant market power, Mr Pongvitayapanu added. This issue extends beyond individual merchants, affecting businesses nationwide and the broader digital economy.
Regulatory Guidelines Deemed Ineffective
The TCCT issued guidelines on anti-competitive conduct for digital e-commerce platforms on 25 March 2026. These guidelines prohibit platforms from taking unfair advantage of merchants, forcing businesses to use their own affiliate services, and restricting competition.
However, merchants contend that market practices do not yet reflect meaningful changes following these regulations. Ananachai Chaiyadej, a lawyer representing the merchants, submitted a follow-up petition. This requests investigations into Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok regarding allegations that merchants remain effectively restricted from choosing preferred logistics providers.
This ongoing dispute highlights rising regulatory scrutiny for digital platforms across Southeast Asia. Thai authorities could implement new enforcement actions or further refine competitive frameworks. For businesses, this means potentially higher operating costs for smaller online sellers, impacting their margins.
The situation also demonstrates a growing push for fairer terms in the platform economy. Companies operating in Thailand's digital retail sector should anticipate increased oversight. This may eventually lead to changes in fee structures or logistics partnerships, affecting regional e-commerce dynamics.
This article is journalism, not investment advice; consult a licensed professional before making financial decisions. Market data is indicative, may be delayed, and should be verified with your broker or exchange before use.
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