Developing legal procedures for agricultural consumer protection in Thailand: A study of WTO laws and human rights-based approach

Abstract

This research aims to examine the legal measures for protecting the rights of consumers affected by unsafe agricultural products through the development of a human rights-based approach and the application of WTO conventions. The study focuses on three core pieces of legislation: the Consumer Protection Act, the Consumer Case Procedure Act, and the Agricultural Commodity Standards Act. A doctrinal legal research methodology is employed to analyze the limitations of Thai law and propose legal reforms in line with international human rights principles and obligations under WTO law. This research found that, although Thailand’s legal framework provides a foundational structure for consumer rights, it still lacks specific mechanisms tailored to agricultural products, particularly in terms of legal definitions, risk-responsive measures, and effective remedial processes. The study recommends legislative amendments to include a clear definition of “agricultural consumers,” the establishment of mediation procedures, and the incorporation of the precautionary principle under the SPS Agreement, all of which would enhance the effectiveness of consumer protection mechanisms.