Supachai explained the announcement of fuel prices, stating that the Commerce Ministry can only control the retail endpoint prices, requiring gas stations to sell at the designated prices, display price signs, and ensure accurate fuel dispensers. She emphasized the ministry’s commitment to managing product price situations as best as possible.
On 26 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Supachai Suthammanphun, Minister of Commerce, addressed criticism regarding the simultaneous 6 baht per liter increase in all fuel types effective from 26 Mar 2026 GMT+7. Despite involving old stock, seen as taking advantage of the public, she clarified that the Price of Goods and Services Act B.E. 2542 (1999), overseen by the Commerce Ministry, covers consumer goods, essential goods, and services but excludes fuel. Fuel pricing is specifically regulated by the Energy Ministry's law, which sets mechanisms and retail price announcements.
"The Commerce Ministry cannot set or announce fuel prices because it lacks legal authority and jurisdiction. However, once prices are set and announced, the Commerce Ministry uses the Price of Goods and Services Act to oversee sales at the designated prices by supervising gas stations to post price signs and verify the accuracy of fuel dispensers across stations." Supachai added,
She acknowledged that this fuel price increase involves many uncontrollable factors. The government is fully prepared to respond. Regarding future fuel price adjustments, the Energy Ministry and the Center for Monitoring the Middle East Conflict Situation (CMEC) are discussing the overall impacts and comprehensive measures to address them.
Regarding product price oversight within the Commerce Ministry’s responsibility, Supachai stated that for controlled goods, the ministry will manage the situation to minimize impact on businesses, the public, farmers, and all sectors. This involves managing through negotiations with businesses and monitoring stock. If new raw materials cause higher costs or new stock is produced from these, the ministry has mechanisms to consider adjusting sale prices appropriately according to costs.
"Given changing fuel prices, the Commerce Ministry will consider actual costs and engage in negotiations with businesses, as well as implement supervisory measures and all market mechanisms. If there are vulnerable areas requiring special care, measures will be implemented to support businesses, the public, and the agricultural sector. Additionally, the Ministry of Finance has measures to support the private and production sectors as well."
A reporter noted that currently, fuel is one of 59 controlled products under the Price of Goods and Services Act B.E. 2542 (1999). However, the Commerce Ministry has no legal enforcement requiring producers or traders to seek permission before adjusting prices; they are only required to display sale prices.