Pattarapong ChatpattarasillEnergy experts have raised concerns over the recent sharp fuel price increase, warning that it could worsen hardship, open the door to profiteering, before urging the government to implement reforms. Assoc Prof Anusorn Tamajai, a People's Party (PP) MP and former Bangchak board member, said a gradual adjustment in line with global oil prices would have been more appropriate. He said the sudden retail petrol and diesel price hike, announced at 9pm last Wednesday, would not effectively curb fuel smuggling to neighbouring countries because price gaps -- driven by subsidies from the Oil Fuel Fund -- remain wide. Ms Areeporn also said the oil fund has been used beyond its intended purpose for too long and should have been preserved for times of crisis such as the current situation. She added there is uncertainty over whether fuel prices reflect a true market rate or continued reliance on the oil fund.

Source: Bangkok Post March 29, 2026 22:35 UTC