Supachai urged the public not to panic over oil, highlighting that stock levels remain sufficient. She revealed that the Ministry of Commerce is strictly controlling prices for 59 products, considering both costs and the public's interests, while awaiting clear measures following Cabinet and Crisis Center meetings.
On 17 March 2026 at the Government House, Supachai Suthumpun, Minister of Commerce, told reporters before attending the Cabinet meeting that concerns about oil supply are matters for related agencies, such as the Ministry of Energy and others, to manage in order to prevent public panic. She emphasized that Thailand still has sufficient oil reserves, as previously explained by the Minister of Energy and Deputy Prime Minister.
Regarding the Ministry of Commerce, Supachai stated that its responsibility includes overseeing both controlled goods and price structures, ensuring compliance with established measures. If prices rise, they must be reasonable in light of fluctuating global conditions. However, any price increases must be accompanied by relief measures that consider both businesses and consumers so that all can sustain together, since the economy must function as a whole. Excessive price suppression could harm businesses, employment, and other sectors.
Currently, the details of these measures are still being developed and will be presented to the Cabinet and discussed at the Crisis Center meeting before an official announcement is made. She asked the public to await clear updates.
On discussions with businesses, the Minister said talks are ongoing, especially regarding raw materials like plastic pellets, which are vital for packaging. Stocks are sufficient through April, and efforts are underway to find additional import sources. Coordination has been made with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to negotiate with trading partners in the Middle East, including Iran.
As for some fertilizers, such as urea, stocks are adequate through August. However, pricing must consider costs. For controlled goods, prices must be prevented from rising excessively, possibly through price-fixing measures. Close consultation with businesses is necessary, and cooperation has been received to some extent so far.
Supachai stated that if overpricing or unfair price increases are found, complaints can be reported via hotline 1569 or to provincial commerce offices, so officials can inspect and take action according to control mechanisms.
Negotiations are also underway to open trade channels in the Middle East to address issues with importing raw materials and exporting backlogged orders, such as processed foods and certain raw materials. She affirmed the government’s commitment to managing consumer goods comprehensively from production to end users. Additionally, talks continue with countries outside the Middle East, like Malaysia and Brunei.
Supachai noted that the Ministry of Commerce controls prices for 59 product types, including essentials like fertilizer, instant noodles, and milk, which are currently price-fixed. At the same time, price fixing must take into account producers’ costs.
She clarified that while the Ministry of Commerce does not set oil prices, once the Ministry of Energy announces pump and refinery prices, the Commerce Ministry monitors to ensure pump prices are accurate and controls oil hoarding as well.
Regarding whether the public should stockpile goods due to expected price increases from rising oil costs, Supachai explained this decision is up to individuals. The Ministry of Commerce cannot prohibit stockpiling but appeals for cooperation in avoiding panic buying, which could cause shortages prematurely.
She emphasized that in this crisis, factors driving price increases are difficult or impossible to control due to ongoing conflicts at the source, which will end only when warring countries conclude negotiations. She reassured that the government is not shifting burdens onto the public and will supervise all areas within its capability.
Concerning reports of petrol stations posting 'out of fuel' signs, she said this matter falls directly under the Ministry of Energy’s jurisdiction and should be addressed by that minister. The Commerce Ministry cannot intervene in this issue.
She concluded by saying the government must work together. When reports arise, relevant agencies will investigate, and provincial commerce offices will provide initial oversight. Coordination is already ongoing in all provinces.