The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior has ordered governors nationwide to inspect refineries and gas stations to prevent hoarding, revealing good news that Iran has allowed Thai oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
On 26 March 2026, Mr. Arsith Sampantharat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, updated on progress in addressing the fuel shortage after being appointed as an official by the Prime Minister to handle the Middle East conflict crisis. He stated that he has ordered provincial governors across the country to conduct close inspections of the fuel situation. Overall checks in several provinces, including major fuel depots, found that most fuel supplies remain sufficient for demand. However, he acknowledged that some locations have seen long queues of people waiting, causing delays in fuel transportation and refilling, which has been reported in various media.
“I have instructed governors and district chiefs to monitor fuel prices, quantities held, and actual sales volumes to guard against hoarding or abnormal sales. Especially, provincial energy officers must submit daily reports from refineries and gas stations without fail,” Mr. Arsith said.
Regarding the latest fuel import situation, there was a positive sign on 24 March when Iranian authorities permitted Thai crude oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Nevertheless, due to the high uncertainty of the ongoing war, I have ordered all provinces to continue strict measures until the situation improves.
The Ministry of Interior has assigned provincial Damrongdhama Centers as the main agency to receive complaints and coordinate fuel-related problem-solving. If citizens observe hoarding or unfair fuel pricing, they can report via the 24-hour hotline 1567 to help restore normal daily life as quickly as possible.