Cambodia Fuel Crisis Spurs Thai Border Traffic Frenzy

Picture courtesy of MGR online

A fuel shortage in Cambodia has sparked a surge in cross-border traffic as Cambodians flood into Thailand seeking cheaper and more accessible petrol. The Thai-Cambodian Friendship Bridge saw over 100 luxury vehicles crossing into Thailand’s Aranyaprathet district, resulting in significant congestion near the immigration checkpoint.

This wave is driven by severe fuel shortages and frequent power outages in Poipet, which have increased reliance on petrol-powered generators.

Petrol in Cambodia has skyrocketed to 48-50 baht per litre, with diesel at 38-40 baht, compared to Thailand’s 41.54 and 31.94 baht, respectively. The official Cambodian prices this week stand at 36 baht for petrol and 29.10 baht for diesel, sparking concerns of profiteering and hoarding.

As a response, many Cambodians are heading to Thailand, refuelling vehicles and storing petrol in 200-litre drums at home. Wealthier Poipet residents have been stockpiling in anticipation of prolonged shortages.

The fuel crisis has been exacerbated by Cambodia’s recent power supply switch from Thailand to Vietnam, which locals claim is unreliable, increasing the demand for generators.

Thai immigration officers at Ban Khlong Luek reported a bustling scene, with over 1,000 Cambodian traders entering to operate shops at the Rong Kluea Market. However, the outbound terminal remained quiet, with minimal Thai and Lao movement.

Poipet’s economy, largely fuelled by casinos, is affected by border disputes leading to bans on Thais crossing to gamble. Thais constitute 80% of Poipet’s casino patrons, many of whom are allegedly Thai-owned.

In response to the increased traffic, additional Thai traffic police have been deployed to maintain order in Aranyaprathet.

Former Cambodian premier Hun Sen insisted Cambodia doesn’t need Thai fuel, amid calls from Thai opposition to halt oil exports.

He remarked that PTT, Thailand’s major oil firm, would be the real loser. PTT operates numerous petrol stations and coffee shops across Cambodia.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-23