The government is considering late-night petrol station closures only as a last-resort measure should the Middle East conflict significantly affect Thailand’s fuel reserves, officials said, stressing that the current situation remains under control.
Sarawut Kaewtathip, director-general of the Department of Energy Business, said petrol stations would only be required to close at 10pm if the war severely disrupted the country’s fuel supply.
“The present situation is not that critical and is still manageable,” he said.
He added that the Ministry of Interior has instructed provincial governors and energy officials to assess fuel demand in their respective areas. The surveys aim to help authorities manage available supplies efficiently and minimise potential economic disruption.
Responding to reports of temporary fuel shortages at certain petrol stations, Mr Sarawut said provincial energy and commerce officials are closely monitoring local supply levels to prevent panic buying and hoarding.
“People should not panic or stockpile fuel,” he said. “The Ministry of Energy is coordinating with fuel traders to ensure rapid deliveries to areas experiencing shortages.”
Meanwhile, Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon said the state-run Oil Fuel Fund — currently used to subsidise diesel prices — is losing more than 1 billion baht (US$32 million) per day.
Government estimates indicate the fund’s accumulated losses could reach around 10 billion baht by March 18, according to cabinet documents released earlier this week.
“The government will reassess the situation, considering both the fund’s financial position and global oil prices, before determining further measures,” Mr Auttapol said.
He noted that subsidies would continue for the time being, pointing out that the fund previously managed debt levels of up to 120 billion baht during the early stages of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Thailand relies heavily on imported energy, with roughly half of its crude oil supplies originating from the Middle East. This dependence leaves the country vulnerable to supply disruptions should the conflict escalate or persist.
Although government subsidies have helped shield consumers from the full impact of rising diesel and cooking gas prices, other fuel costs have already begun to increase, placing additional pressure on household budgets.
Officials again urged the public to remain calm after reports that some farmers and rural residents had begun stockpiling fuel despite assurances that supplies remain sufficient.