PM moves to secure fuel supplyPrime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered urgent nationwide measures to safeguard the country's energy supply, instructing provincial governors to coordinate closely with police to allow oil transport trucks to operate around the clock. The directive aims to ease potential fuel shortages and ensure uninterrupted energy distribution to households and businesses. Unsit Sampuntharat, interior permanent secretary, said the premier has emphasised closer integration among state agencies, assigning the Interior Ministry to work with the Energy Ministry to manage essential resources and maintain stable fuel access nationwide. Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon said Thailand has steadily diversified its energy sources, cutting dependence on Middle Eastern crude from about 70% in the past to just over 50%. The country is increasingly sourcing oil from other regions, including Africa and the United States, to strengthen energy security and reduce exposure to geopolitical risks, he said.

Source: Bangkok Post March 18, 2026 22:13 UTC