Report Thailand Cracks Down on Green Oil Smuggling with New Initiative

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Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul has unveiled a new initiative in Rayong province aimed at curbing the illegal use of green oil, a tax-free diesel intended for the fishing industry. The strategy utilises cutting-edge technology to monitor shipping routes in real-time, employing RTS (Real-Time Surveillance) and AIS (Automatic Identification System) to ensure compliance.

 

During his visit to Rayong, Rojanasakul underscored the importance of regulating green oil to prevent misuse. Designed to aid Thai fishermen by offering diesel at a reduced cost, this initiative supports over 7,000 vessels across 22 coastal provinces, specifically in the kingdom's contiguous zones, ranging from 12 to 24 nautical miles offshore.

 

Despite its benefits, the lower price of green oil has made it a target for smuggling operations. This includes illicit activities like returning the diesel to mainland areas for sale, unauthorised sales to ineligible vessels, and foreign fishing boats acquiring the fuel illegally. To combat these issues, Rojanasakul has instructed the Excise Department to implement a robust five-measure plan:

 

1. Registration and Conditions: All vessels participating in the green oil project must register with the Excise Department, adhering to strict guidelines. This includes tanker ships, service station ships, continuous oil carriers, and fishing boats.
2. Monitoring Sales at Every Stage: Advanced technology will oversee the green oil distribution chain, from refineries to fishing vessels. A verification system will track sales data, ensuring transparency in recipients, quantities, dates, and times. Moreover, gauges will be installed on vessels to monitor oil intake and distribution for each transportation phase.
3. Real-Time Surveillance Technology (RTS): Oil tanker routes will be tracked to ensure they remain within designated zones. The system will issue alerts for any irregular activities, enabling swift responses.
4. Automatic Identification System (AIS): Eligible fishing vessels will be monitored for any unusual activity or deviation from expected routes, enhancing oversight and compliance.
5. Government Cooperation: Continuous collaboration with agencies such as the Customs Department, Marine Police Division, and the Royal Thai Navy will integrate data and efforts to systematically thwart smuggling.

 

This initiative represents a significant step in safeguarding Thailand's fishing industry while ensuring resources meant for economic support do not fuel illegal activities. Through technology and cross-agency cooperation, Thailand aims to enforce strict controls and maintain the integrity of its maritime fuel resources.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-29