Bangkok: The conflict in the Middle East is beginning to affect Thai artisanal fisheries. The Samut Prakan Fisheries Association has appealed to the government, stating that fighting in the central eastern region is beginning to impact small-scale fishermen, preventing them from going out to sea. They are also unable to use jerrycans to buy fuel at gas stations and are urging the government for urgent assistance. Simultaneously, the association is assessing the systemic impact and preparing to discuss the matter with the government, as well as requesting an extension of debt repayment deadlines to help affected businesses.

According to Thai News Agency, the Samut Prakan Fisheries Association has sent a letter to the Fisheries Association of Thailand outlining their plight, stating that the unrest in the Middle East has caused concerns about fuel supply. As a result, local fishing boats are unable to purchase fuel from gas stations using gallons as before, forcing some boats to cease operations.

Mr. Trairik Musanthad, President of the Thai Fisheries Association, revealed that the association is aware of the hardships faced by local fishermen and has sent a letter to the government requesting consideration of solutions and assistance for those affected.

The Thai Fisheries Association is currently assessing the impact of the unrest in the Middle East on the overall Thai fishing industry, including fuel costs, fishing operations, and the impact on the fishing supply chain. This is to gather data and prepare for discussions with the government on how to address the situation in the long term.

Previously, the Thai Fisheries Association had also sent a letter to the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives requesting consideration to extend the repayment period for the first phase of the loan program to improve the liquidity of fishing entrepreneurs. This followed discussions among members and fishermen at the association's annual general meeting on February 27, 2026.

During the meeting, members highlighted the debt repayment challenges of the first phase of the loan program to enhance the liquidity of fishing entrepreneurs, as the repayment deadline is approaching. Therefore, a proposal was made to extend the repayment period to alleviate the burden on fishing entrepreneurs and to cover the second and third phases of the loan program.