Flood-Hit Mae Sai Market Reopens as Vendors Slash Prices to Clear Damaged Stock
CHIANG RAI, Thailand – May 27, 2025
As floodwaters receded from Sai Lom Joy market in Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district, vendors were quick to slash prices on flood-damaged goods in an effort to recover losses and support the local community.
The market and surrounding neighborhoods had been inundated after the Sai River overflowed due to heavy rainfall. On Tuesday, as waters began to drain, a massive cleanup effort was launched and displaced residents started returning to clean their mud-caked homes and businesses.
District Chief Warayut Khombun led a multi-agency operation at the Ko Sai community junction to coordinate relief and recovery efforts. He reported that water levels were steadily declining and, according to the Meteorological Department and hydrological data, rainfall would subside over the next few days, easing fears of further flooding.
Despite the damage, a sense of resilience permeated the market. Vendors assessed their losses and began selling salvageable goods at steep discounts—some even below cost—drawing crowds of bargain hunters and residents eager to help the community bounce back.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as cleanup efforts progress and economic activity cautiously resumes.
