Pipat expressed gratitude to the Fishing Association for engaging in dialogue, considering it better than blocking the bay with boats. He stated he did not want to criticize other agencies that transported vehicles to block roads. He emphasized that the Prime Minister gives importance to addressing the people's hardships.
On 18 March 2026 at Government House Building 1, the Thai Fishing Association, led by Mr. Trairuek Musuntat, president of the association, along with operators, met with Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, to discuss solutions to the fuel hardship issues in the fishing sector. The Marine Department and related agencies also participated in the meeting.
Before the meeting, Pipat said: "I thank the many agencies that joined the meeting and discussions with the Fishing Association today. I believe this method is the right approach rather than suddenly blocking the entire bay with boats, which I think is inappropriate. I believe the government, especially Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, is ready to listen to all problems, particularly now with the war situation in the Persian Gulf, which affects not only Thailand but many countries similarly. I also thank the Fishing Association for sending a letter to initiate discussions. I do not want to criticize other agencies that blocked roads to protest."
The Thai Fishing Association's demands include that the government cap the price of green diesel at no more than 30 baht per liter, the same price as at fuel stations. They also request that the oil fund stabilize prices through jobber sales to fishing boats refueling onshore, and to allow fuel imports for fishermen on both the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman coasts. Although the cabinet approved this on 14 March 2006, it has not been implemented due to the lack of supporting regulations. Additionally, they request a 5 baht per liter reduction in refining fees for green diesel and assistance for local fishermen to access cheaper fuel, as they use gasoline and diesel.
