Bangkok: Bus companies are set to reduce fares by 3 satang per kilometer following a decrease in diesel fuel prices, effective July 11th. The Department of Land Transport has announced this adjustment, impacting bus fare categories 2 and 3, as diesel prices continue to decline.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sorapong Paitoonpong, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport, shared that the stabilization of the Middle East conflict has contributed to a steady drop in diesel fuel prices. Under the guidance of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, and Deputy Minister of Transport, Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, the Ministry of Transport has directed relevant agencies to adjust bus fares to align with the current fuel prices, aiming to ease the financial strain on the public.

The recent reduction in oil prices, with diesel currently priced at 34.94 baht per liter as of July 8, 2026, prompted the Sub-committee on Transportation Rate Consideration (Passenger Fares) to decide on the fare reduction. This change, effective July 11, 2026, will apply to Category 2 (Bangkok - provinces) and Category 3 (inter-provincial) buses, reducing passenger fares by 3 satang per kilometer/seat. Existing exceptions to fare reductions will continue as previously approved.

Mr. Sorapong highlighted that the fare adjustment is based on a calculation formula that takes into account actual costs, which are updated according to current conditions. This includes factors like the Consumer Price Index (CPI), the Energy Index, and labor wages, allowing for adjustments as needed.

The fare reduction aims to enable operators to set fares reflecting true operating costs, ensuring continuous service, mitigating the public's financial burden during economic instability, promoting public transportation use, enhancing travel safety, and reducing traffic congestion.