Bangkok: The Thai Chamber of Commerce has expressed gratitude towards the government for its proactive approach in addressing the oil price issue, following close collaboration with the private sector. The Chamber, along with the Federation of Thai Chambers of Commerce, praised governmental efforts in adjusting pricing structures to reflect market mechanisms and in promoting the use of alternative energy solutions, such as B20 biodiesel, to ease business burdens.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Poj Aramwattananon, Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Thai Chambers of Commerce, revealed that the Chamber actively conveyed the current challenges businesses face to the Center for Monitoring and Managing the Conflict in the Middle East (CMC). To support policy formulation that aligns with the business sector's realities amid the Middle East crisis, they submitted a comprehensive survey on energy usage impacts to the Deputy Prime Minister.
The Chamber highlighted two critical issues acknowledged by the government. Firstly, the need to expedite fuel distribution to depots, which would alleviate truck congestion at service stations and prevent local fuel shortages. This measure aims to ensure the seamless operation of production and transportation sectors.
Secondly, the Chamber proposed measures to support the transportation sector and ensure price transparency at depots. In response, the government mandated daily announcements of depot fuel prices since March 17th to foster transparency and fairness, especially for routes to the South where depot prices often exceed retail prices.
The meeting also underscored promoting B20 fuel as a cost-effective alternative, which will significantly reduce price discrepancies and financial pressures on businesses. Following the end of the price freeze on March 17, 2026, a price restructuring has been implemented to incentivize alternative energy use, leading to a 79 satang per liter reduction in E20 fuel prices, creating a 5 baht per liter price difference with gasohol.
Mr. Poj extended his appreciation to the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Ministers, the Minister of Energy, the Minister of Commerce, and relevant agencies for their commitment to resolving these issues swiftly and effectively, thus minimizing the impact on both public and business sectors.