Thai Truckers Protest Over Fuel Mismanagement Fears

Bangkok: Logistics operators gathered today to protest the government's fuel management, warning that a lack of transparency and looming shortages could drive up national consumer costs. Siriphop Phichairattanaphong, Secretary-General of the Land Transport Federation of Thailand, stated that the mobilization aims to press the government for urgent solutions. Despite official assurances of 60-90 days of reserves, Siriphop claimed a visible shortage has already emerged.

According to Thai News Agency, the Federation is questioning the rapid spike in ex-refinery prices over recent days. Siriphop urged the government to fully utilize existing tools-including the Fuel Fund, marketing margins, refinery adjustments, and excise taxes-before allowing price hikes. "The lack of clear explanation for these rapid increases raises questions about transparency and who exactly is benefiting," Siriphop said.

The group expressed concern that if the situation remains unresolved, fuel transport trucks could be stranded nationwide, triggering a market-wide surge in the cost of goods.