Thailand Considers Overnight Petrol Station Closures Amid Global Fuel Supply Concerns

Thailand is weighing the introduction of overnight petrol station closures starting later this month to conserve fuel, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced on Tuesday. The move comes as the ongoing Middle East conflict fuels fears of global oil shortages.

Anutin, whose new cabinet was sworn in Monday, told reporters in Bangkok that the government is considering restricting fuel sales from 10:00 pm to 5:00 am, potentially beginning April 20. The measure is designed to ensure adequate fuel supplies while maintaining domestic stability.

The prime minister reassured citizens that the temporary closures would not affect travel plans for the Songkran holiday, Thailand’s traditional New Year festival, observed from Monday to Wednesday next week. Many Thais typically travel to their hometowns during this period to visit family. “Petrol station closing hours may start after people return from their Songkran trips and resume normal life,” Anutin said.

Highlighting the country’s dependence on imported oil, Anutin urged the public to conserve energy, suggesting remote work and increased use of public transport. “Although Thailand maintains oil reserves at a relatively high level compared with other countries, we remain vulnerable as a nation that must import large volumes of oil from various oil-exporting countries,” he said.

The government’s announcement underscores growing concern over fuel security as global markets are disrupted by the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Authorities emphasize that careful energy management is crucial to avoid shortages and maintain economic stability.

Thailand’s oil reserves are considered sufficient for now, but officials caution that proactive measures, including potential overnight closures, are necessary to safeguard supply for households and businesses nationwide.