Thailand cost of living, unemployment UP

Thai inflation rose most in December 2012 since November 2011. CNBC
Most of the increase was attributed to food prices.

I'm noticing it

At the market, produce prices are up.
Vendors blame it on the fact that it's the cold season.  Doubtful.

Days into the new year, the price of a favorite brew went up 3฿ (US 10¢).
Brew prices were hiked previously, less than 6 months ago.

Politicians are saying:

The nationwide minimum wage hike, effective January 1, 2012, will have little effect on inflation. 

• NESDB says wage hike won't drive up inflation  Bangkok Post

In the real world

Layoffs, companies leaving Thailand.

• Wage increase begins to bite in Thailand  ASIA ONE

Unemployed Thais are being replaced with cheaper foreign labor

• Wage hike forces Thai firms hire Cambodians  THE NATION

It will be interesting to observe the inflation trend over the next few months.
Unemployed Thais are returning to their home provinces, now that the minimum wage is enforced nationwide.

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