In Chiang Rai, fuel prices have increased by 6 baht per liter, with residents lining up at gas stations from 5 AM. Meanwhile, local van operators are enduring the cost rise and maintaining fares, even as diesel prices surge to 39.88 baht per liter.
At approximately 5:00 AM on 26 March 2026 GMT+7, reporters observed the atmosphere at the PTT gas station in Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai province, where vehicles queued for fuel from early morning after news spread of a 6 baht per liter price increase. Yesterday, many Chiang Rai residents flocked to gas stations, waiting hours to refuel, causing shortages at some stations.
This morning, people again arrived early to line up for fuel, despite the price increase from yesterday’s rates in Chiang Rai province: diesel at 33.99 baht per liter, Gasoline 95 at 35.99 baht, Gasoline 91 at 35.65 baht, and E20 at 30.99 baht per liter.
Today, retail fuel prices at Chiang Rai gas stations adjusted to diesel at 39.88 baht per liter, Gasoline 95 at 41.99 baht, Gasoline 91 at 41.62 baht, and E20 at 36.99 baht per liter.
Inquiries with local van service operators running routes between Mae Sai and Chiang Rai revealed they are keeping passenger fares unchanged to serve the public, while farmers express concerns over potential fuel shortages and the imbalance between production costs and fuel prices.
Mr. Natthaphong Kaewpha, an agricultural drone operator, said he rushed to refuel early to avoid long waits or shortages since he needs fuel for his work. He highlighted worries among farmers that the rice harvest starting in April could be affected, as harvesting machines require large fuel amounts. Insufficient fuel could damage crops and delay harvesting. Moreover, the rising fuel prices compared to crop yields could cause farmers to suffer losses.
A gas station attendant, who has worked there for 19 years, admitted he had never seen fuel prices rise so sharply before and that this is unprecedented in his experience.