The Thai government is considering closing petrol stations at 10 pm, but only if the Middle East conflict critically impacts fuel reserves. Currently, the situation remains manageable, according to Sarawut Kaewtathip, the Department of Energy Business director-general. Measures are being taken to assess and manage fuel demand throughout the country.

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The Ministry of Interior has directed provincial governors and energy chiefs to survey fuel needs to formulate an effective response, preventing significant economic damage. Reports have emerged of fuel shortages at some stations, prompting local officials to monitor supplies closely to mitigate hoarding. Sarawut emphasized that there is no need for panic, as swift fuel deliveries are organized where stocks are low.

Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon revealed that the state-run oil fund, which subsidizes diesel, is currently losing over 1 billion baht daily. He noted that the government is evaluating its approach, considering the fund's condition and global market prices, although subsidies remain in place for now. The country's reliance on Middle Eastern oil imports makes it vulnerable, particularly if the conflict continues.

Minister Suphajee Suthumpun reassured citizens that if the situation worsens, further measures will be implemented. She urged the public to refrain from panic buying, highlighting that supplies are still sufficient. The government has prioritized domestic oil needs, suspended most exports, increased biofuel blends, and encouraged remote working for state and military personnel. Officials are considering potential actions, such as gradually increasing diesel prices, to address expanding oil fund losses.

In a related development, authorities seized 26,800 litres of diesel and biodiesel from a truck near the Myanmar border, demonstrating the continued enforcement of fuel regulations, reported Bangkok Post.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Bangkok Post · 11 Mar 2026

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But a day ago Anutin stated there were no problems to be expected, but they start already with taking measures... Exceptional that Thailand now suddenly think ahaead, which means the situation is more serious than want that people know

OK. 5,4,3,2,1 Panic all over the country !

I recall Thaksin closing the petrol/gas stations at night too but can't remember the reasoning.

2 hours ago, ikke1959 said:

Exceptional that Thailand now suddenly think ahaead, which means the situation is more serious than want that people know

Yes this could well get very serious..but never mind Trump has all the oil he needs so he's ok

sod everyone else !!

How closing petrol stations at night will solve problems is beyond me.

What about emergency vehicles needing petrol at night?

What about all the fresh food being transported from rural areas to city markets at night?

What about the lost income from people working at service stations at night?

Etc.

5 hours ago, JimHuaHin said:

How closing petrol stations at night will solve problems is beyond me.

What about emergency vehicles needing petrol at night?

What about all the fresh food being transported from rural areas to city markets at night?

What about the lost income from people working at service stations at night?

Etc.

who cares ........first they shout than they think