Keeping an eye on cheap ‘ele-pants’

THE country ordered its ports to keep a close watch out for rogue ‘elephant pants’ being imported to the kingdom, as Bangkok trumpeted its copyright claim to the popular pachyderm print.

The thin cotton trousers have long been a staple of European backpackers travelling through South-East Asia, but in recent months, have become an unexpected hit with young Thais. However, a jumbo influx of cheap Chinese-made pants has sparked concern over foreign imports edging out local manufacturers and caught officials’ attention.

“We have ordered the surveillance of elephant pants in all ports,” Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai told reporters yesterday. — AFP