Attapon has ordered provincial energy officials to closely monitor gas stations and oil storage sites nationwide to prevent hoarding or selling at excessively high prices.
On 20 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Attapon Rerkpiboon, Minister of Energy, issued an urgent directive for provincial energy officials throughout the country to conduct close inspections of gas stations and oil storage facilities under the Ministry of Energy's supervision. He also instructed continuous reporting on any findings related to oil hoarding.
Oil hoarding has been detected in Ang Thong Province, where authorities are currently verifying whether the situation constitutes hoarding. Preliminary findings indicate violations including failure to report transport invoices and selling oil at prices exceeding legal limits. Regardless of the investigation's outcome, if legal action is warranted, the Ministries of Energy and Commerce will collaborate fully to prosecute offenders and set an example.
"I have directed provincial energy officials nationwide to closely monitor the situation and submit continuous reports. Actions will be coordinated with the Ministry of Interior, provincial commerce offices, and police to prevent hoarding or selling at inflated prices. The Ministry of Energy will maintain this vigilance until conditions normalize, ensuring consumer confidence," Attapon said. Attapon stated.