Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul has signed an order appointing Pipat Ratchakitprakarn to strictly oversee fuel retailers to resolve the ongoing oil crisis and prevent shortages. The order includes measures such as requiring reports on sales by customer and listing those purchasing more than 3,000 liters per transaction.

According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister's Office Order No. 3/2569 has been issued to address and prevent fuel shortages resulting from escalating conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. These conflicts have significantly impacted the production and export of fuel and natural gas from the Middle East, a major global supply source. Thailand, heavily reliant on these imports, is experiencing the repercussions through rapid price increases and fuel shortages at various stations and depots.

The measures outlined in the order are based on Section 3 of the Fuel Shortage Prevention and Mitigation Act B.E. 2516 (1973). The order mandates that it take effect upon publication in the Royal Gazette. Oil traders are required to comply with several clauses, including displaying fuel prices publicly and submitting pricing reports to the Director-General of the Department of Energy Business every time prices are adjusted.

Additionally, oil refineries and traders must report production volumes, possession quantities, and sales records, including customer lists and quantities sold, to the Director-General daily by 6:00 PM. These reports must be formatted as prescribed and sent to a designated email address. Compliance with Section 10 of the Fuel Oil Trading Act is also mandated.

Article 4 of the order assigns responsibilities to Deputy Prime Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, the Minister of Justice, and other officials to monitor and inspect the operations of oil traders, ensuring adherence to the law. They are also empowered to appoint officials to execute the order's directives.