The House of Representatives on Thursday approved in principle a landmark "Lemon Law" bill aimed at strengthening consumer protection by shifting liability to sellers and easing the burden on consumers in proving defects.
The bill, formally known as the Product Defect Liability Bill, was endorsed by 420 votes with no opposition or abstentions.
Lawmakers also agreed to use the cabinet-sponsored version as the principal draft for further deliberation, with 275 votes in favour. A 24-member special committee was appointed to scrutinise the legislation, with a 15-day amendment period set.
The bill is the first piece of legislation submitted to parliament by the government of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. The cabinet approved the draft on June 16 as part of its policy to enhance consumer rights and protections.
Presenting the bill on behalf of the government, Prime Minister's Office Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi said that modern products often incorporate complex technologies, making defects difficult for consumers to detect at the time of purchase.
When problems arise, buyers are frequently required to prove that the defect existed before delivery, resulting in lengthy disputes and additional costs, she said.
Under the proposed law, sellers would be presumed liable if a product develops defects within a specified period.
For general goods, electrical appliances, electronic devices and motorcycles, defects appearing within six months would be presumed to have existed at the time of delivery. For automobiles, the period would be extended to one year.
The legislation would also grant consumers the right to request repairs, replacements, price reductions or refunds.
In cases involving serious defects, buyers could demand an immediate replacement within seven days for general products and within 14 days for electrical and electronic goods. Repair deadlines would be capped at 60 days for most products and 90 days for vehicles.
Ms Supamas said the measure would allow consumers to shop with greater confidence, reduce legal disputes and encourage businesses to improve product quality, bringing Thailand's consumer protection standards closer to international norms.
During the debate, People's Party MP Kanphong Prayoonsak welcomed the bill, saying it would encourage repairs rather than premature replacement of defective products, reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility.
Democrat MP Radklao Inthawong Suwankiri also backed the legislation, arguing that it would help address long-standing gaps in consumer protection.
