Bangkok: The Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has dispelled rumors of an impending oil shortage, assuring that Thailand's crude oil reserves are sufficient to last until May.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Danucha Pichayanant, Secretary-General of NESDC, reported the findings from a field inspection of 22 oil depots across the country. The inspection, conducted in collaboration with relevant agencies, revealed no evidence of oil hoarding by jobbers or large-scale Section 7 traders. Although some depots had oil levels below 50%, this was due to efficient trading and distribution mechanisms operating throughout the week. The situation at gas stations is showing improvement, with fewer stations experiencing fuel shortages. Current crude oil reserves total over 36 million barrels, and plans for continued imports during April-May are in place to meet domestic demand.

Mr. Pichayanant also highlighted the Prime Minister's initiative to enhance energy security by managing oil resources more effectively. This strategy involves studying a plan to "transfer refined oil from abroad" to Laos instead of exporting domestically refined oil, which averages 4.6 million liters per day. Successful implementation of this plan could increase Thailand's domestic oil reserves by at least 5 million liters per day. Relevant agencies are currently coordinating to study the details and procedures for optimal implementation.