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Thailand is experiencing fuel shortages at petrol stations due to fears of sharp oil price increases from the Middle East conflict, prompting the government to clarify that it's a transportation bottleneck, not a lack of reserves.

Thailand's Fuel Shortage Situation

Thailand is currently facing increasing fuel shortages at petrol stations, with many putting up 'out of fuel' signs or limiting their operating hours. This situation arises amid fears of sharp oil price increases due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The Thai government maintains that there are sufficient oil reserves, but the lack of fuel at pumps has become a visible issue across the country.

Energy Department Blames Transportation Bottleneck

Thailand's Department of Energy Business has apologized for the chaos, clarifying that the current situation is not a genuine shortage but rather a transportation bottleneck. The department specifically points to issues in the distribution from major oil traders to jobbers, who are responsible for supplying fuel to the industrial sector. They assert that the country holds oil reserves sufficient for at least 101 days and operates six oil refineries producing a minimum of 175 million litres of finished oil products daily.

Daily Production and Outlook

The daily production includes 33 million litres of benzine, 80 million litres of diesel, 25 million litres for aircraft fuel, 13 million litres of fuel oil, and 6-7 million kilograms of LPG. While these figures are deemed sufficient for domestic consumption, the focus remains on resolving the distribution issues. Citizens in Thailand are advised to fill their tanks quickly as prices are expected to continue rising, highlighting the urgency for improved fuel logistics.

*Source: YouTube: Thai PBS World (2026-03-18)*

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