Bangkok - Black clothing is in high demand and reportedly out of stock as Thailand's residents flock to buy mourning clothes, following the government's request for the public to mourn late king Bhumibol Adulyadej for one year.
Shops across the country have put black-coloured clothes on the front racks.
"I was quite late getting black clothing from my supplier so I am stuck with what I have for now," Piyada Sripiachai, a market vendor, referring to her bright-coloured clothes hidden at the back of her shop.
"All the black T-shirts were sold out this morning so we only have white ones to sell this afternoon," said Pornthep Charoenkulsak, another vendor.
White and other dark colours such as grey are considered second best to black as mourning clothes.
"Our business has been affected because there is not enough raw material to fulfil our regular orders," a Bangkok-based factory told dpa.
"This high demand for black and white textile is not only for dressing purpose, but also as decorations," said the Thai Textile Industry Public Company, which noted a spike in orders for black textile used to decorate the king's portrait.
As emotions run high during this time of national mourning, some people were reportedly criticised for not wearing black.
Government officials have urged Thais to be calm and understanding to others who might not be able to afford black clothing.
"Those who cannot dress in black or white can wear mourning symbols such as black ribbons or bows," said government spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd, Bangkok Post reported.
In the latest development, Finance Permanent Secretary Somchai Sujjapongse told local media on Monday that state-run banks will be giving out 8 million black T-shirts to those who cannot afford them.
Somchai said this measure is in line with the government's policy to financially support low income earners.
dpa