Border gas station operators explain that the local fuel shortage is due to rising market prices, which have made it impossible for them to procure fuel for sale. They reveal that prices have now returned to normal, and efforts are being made to expedite fuel transport into service areas.
This afternoon (4 Mar 2026 GMT+7), reporters visited gas stations in Nam Yuen District, Ubon Ratchathani Province, following reports of fuel shortages along the Thailand-Cambodia border. It was found that several stations displayed signs stating diesel was sold out, and some had closed because they had no fuel to sell to local customers.
Mr. Jirawat Arunpong, 33, a local gas station owner, said the current fuel situation involves many customers coming to fill up due to ongoing agricultural activities like plowing and cassava transportation. Fearing price increases and shortages, residents have been buying and stockpiling fuel.
Regarding social media claims of fuel shortages, he explained that in his station's case, the issue was high prices that made it impossible to purchase fuel for resale. Rising market prices meant he and some other operators could not absorb the costs. However, prices have now normalized, and he is working to bring fuel back for sale. Additional stock is expected this evening (4 Mar), with more ordered for tomorrow (5 Mar), anticipating a return to normal supply.
On the Middle East situation and oil prices, he declined to comment. He also avoids stocking large amounts of fuel to reduce risk if prices fall. Local people remain somewhat concerned about fuel, as it is used for agriculture and many bring containers to store fuel in case of unforeseen events or evacuation. The gas station requests cooperation in sharing so all customers can access fuel.