Yangon: Myanmar has begun implementing a fuel rationing system for vehicles, granting priority for refueling based on the even or odd number of digits in their license plates, in an attempt to reduce fuel consumption amidst concerns about global oil supplies stemming from the situation in the Middle East.
According to Thai News Agency, the Myanmar government issued an order on March 3, 2026, following the latest US and Israeli invasion of Iran on February 28, requiring all private vehicles to adhere to a fuel rationing system. This system allows vehicles with license plates ending in even or odd numbers to refuel only on even and odd-numbered days, effective March 7, in order to reduce fuel consumption. This measure excludes school buses, employee shuttles, taxis, ambulances, and garbage trucks. The Ministry of Land Transport reported that Myanmar had a total of 599,301 private vehicles in 2024.
A government spokesman announced on March 4 that Myanmar had approximately 130 million gallons of gasoline and diesel reserves, enough for about 40 days of use. Myanmar relies on imports for 90 percent of its oil needs by 2024 and faces supply chain disruptions due to domestic unrest and international sanctions. Meanwhile, Myanmar's National Defence and Security Council warned that it would prosecute those hoarding oil to sell at inflated prices.
Drivers in Myanmar have been flocking to gas stations to refuel since March 3rd due to concerns about fuel shortages and rising prices. Gas stations in Mandalay have limited fuel purchases to 5,000 kyat (approximately 40 baht) and 15,000 kyat (approximately 80 baht) respectively for motorcycles and cars, doubling the price from the previous day.