Bangkok: "Attaphol" is poised to raise the diesel price ceiling to no more than 33 baht, with a 50 satang increase tomorrow.

According to Thai News Agency, Attaphol Rerkpiboon, the Minister of Energy, has clarified that this adjustment will not constitute price gouging. The initial increase will commence with a 50 satang per liter rise. Additionally, the introduction of the B20 fuel formula for trucks is planned, allowing refueling at depots to alleviate congestion at gas stations. Gasoline prices will continue to be governed by market mechanisms, resulting in a 1 baht per liter increase for Gasohol 95 and a 79 satang per liter decrease for E20.

Mr. Rerkpiboon addressed the Center for Monitoring and Managing the Conflict in the Middle East, confirming a crude oil supply for 101 days and announcing an export ban. Refineries have pledged to operate at full capacity to meet demand, with oil shipments available for trucks around the clock. These shipments will utilize dedicated vehicles for safety, maintaining a consistent number of transporting trucks. Previous panic buying had led to price surges, prompting government requests for increased refinery operations.

The Energy Minister has sought collaboration from the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Transport, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and traffic police to relax fuel truck operating hour restrictions. Monitoring efforts will determine the appropriate timing for this relaxation, aimed at increasing fuel transportation trips and alleviating gas station congestion. Public cooperation is urged to avoid fuel hoarding, maintaining normal consumption and refueling habits to stabilize the situation.

Currently, diesel prices are capped at 30 baht. The plan is to incrementally raise this to 33 baht, minimizing public impact. Compared to Malaysia's recent increase to 32 baht, the 33 baht ceiling reflects a typical fluctuation in the Thai fuel market. Adjustments from B5 to B7 fuel specifications have been made, with future announcements to cover B10 and B20 choices. The B10 specification will be priced 2 baht less than B7. Meanwhile, E10 gasoline has risen by 1 baht, whereas E20 has decreased by 79 satang, positioning E20 as 5 baht cheaper than E10.