Bangkok:Truck operators convened outside the Ministry of Energy on Wednesday, urging the government to impose a price cap of 35 baht per liter on B7 diesel fuel. The Land Transport Federation of Thailand has issued a 60-day ultimatum for government action, warning of potential large-scale protests in the capital if their demands are not met.
According to Thai News Agency, Federation President Thongyoo Kongkhan formally submitted a petition to Energy Minister Akanat Promphan through his secretary. Thongyoo highlighted that the current state subsidies, which target B20 diesel, are insufficient for most commercial drivers who primarily use B7 diesel.
The petition also calls for broader reforms in energy pricing. Key demands from the federation include regulating refinery margins, reducing excise taxes, restructuring national fuel pricing, and investigating approximately 700 million liters of fuel that remain unaccounted for in the system.
The federation has warned that if the government does not show progress within the 60-day timeframe, it plans to mobilize between 500 and 1,000 trucks into Bangkok following upcoming national royal ceremonies. The minister's secretary has accepted the petition, ensuring that the demands will be presented to Minister Akanat. A joint meeting with transport representatives is promised within two weeks.