Bangkok: "Ekniti" has ordered the management of the industrial sector to ensure that fuel is sold at prices higher than those at gas stations. The Prime Minister has convened an urgent meeting of the Energy Policy and Strategy Center (EPSC) to address energy prices with retailers, coinciding with the expiration of the 15-day fuel price freeze. Minister Ekniti has already communicated with retailers, confirming a 90-day fuel supply, while noting that industrial sector fuel is priced 11 baht higher than at gas stations, which raises concerns about the potential impact on commodity prices.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has tasked Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Ekniti Nitithanpraphas with chairing the meeting of the Center for Monitoring and Managing the Conflict in the Middle East (CMC). The meeting, initially set for Government House, was relocated to meeting room CB 406 on the 4th floor of the Parliament building. It brought together government agencies, the private sector, businesses, and entrepreneurs to address the impending end of the diesel fuel price freeze, set to conclude tomorrow.
The meeting commenced with each agency presenting reports on the fuel supply situation and energy management strategies amid the Middle East conflict, aiming to mitigate any negative effects on the public. During the Economic and Social Development Council meeting, the President of the Thai Chamber of Commerce discussed the challenges faced by the industrial sector in purchasing oil through jobbers. It was suggested that industrial sectors could negotiate prices directly, with confidence expressed that the industry could adapt to these terms.
Concerns were raised about the disparity in fuel prices, with the cost at gas stations being 11 baht cheaper than through jobbers. This pricing dynamic has led operators, particularly those with large fleets, to source fuel from gas stations, increasing demand and competition. The government was urged to address this issue to alleviate pressure on smaller retailers and prevent the anticipated rise in costs for domestic shipping, especially in the South, which could elevate the cost of living and affect goods prices nationwide.
Mr. Ekniti summarized that oil retailers have confirmed a 90-day crude oil reserve, with ample supply post-refinement available at gas stations. Today's focus was on managing transportation logistics and assuring the public of sufficient fuel availability. He emphasized the importance of effective communication to reinforce public confidence in fuel supply stability.
Furthermore, the Chamber of Commerce president highlighted the necessity for improved management, especially in the industrial sector, which has increased its reliance on gas stations for fuel. This shift in demand has led to public concerns about potential fuel shortages. It was recommended that the Ministry of Energy and the Department of Logistics implement a monitoring dashboard to track fuel supply levels, ensuring timely replenishment and effective communication management.
The industrial sector's fuel management needs to be refined to prevent competition with public resources, with strategic oversight to maintain balance between industrial and public fuel needs.