Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul has confidently stated that Thailand holds the largest oil reserves in the ASEAN region, while urging the public to conserve resources without resorting to hoarding. Despite ongoing exports to Laos amid its national crisis, Anutin emphasized there is no oil shortage in Thailand and assured that discussions with various countries, including Russia, are progressing. He also highlighted that Thailand's electricity production, powered by domestic natural gas, remains stable.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul addressed concerns regarding the continuation of oil exports to Laos during a recent interview. He reassured that oil sales to Laos persist despite the latter's crisis. Furthermore, Anutin negated the possibility of a fuel shortage, attributing the situation to misinformation about industrial sectors acquiring fuel from public gas stations.
Anutin also addressed comments made by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapas, indicating potential fuel shortages due to industrial purchasing. Anutin clarified that major oil traders such as Thai Oil, Bangchak, Shell, and SPRC (Caltex) have confirmed the absence of any supply issues. He stressed the abnormality of the current situation due to global conflicts and underscored the importance of public awareness and fuel conservation efforts.
He noted that Thailand's oil reserves have increased from 60 to 90 days, with aspirations to reach 100 days by limiting exports to third countries. Anutin emphasized that conserving fuel would further enhance reserve levels, highlighting Thailand's standing as having the largest fuel reserves in ASEAN. He encouraged the public to recognize this achievement and avoid unnecessary comparisons with countries like Japan.
Anutin further commented on the adequacy of crude oil in refineries, affirming sufficient reserves of up to 100 days. He reiterated the unlikelihood of an energy shortage, emphasizing that Thailand's electricity is generated from natural gas sourced from the Gulf of Thailand, with plans to expand gas production.
Regarding oil prices, Anutin acknowledged their fluctuation in alignment with global markets. However, he assured that Thailand's oil fund is designed to stabilize prices and mitigate public hardship, contingent on budgetary and economic considerations.
In closing, Anutin expressed gratitude to the public for their cooperation and urged against panic or fuel stockpiling. He assured that the government is committed to managing the situation effectively, even in the face of potential price increases or reduced reserve periods. Anutin also mentioned ongoing negotiations for purchasing oil from Russia, underscoring the strategic importance of PTT Public Company Limited in the regional oil market.