Naphinthara revealed that a special Cabinet meeting has approved measures to assist the public, expressing confidence that the government can handle the situation and assuring that there will be enough fuel during Songkran. Meanwhile, Chaiyachon urged citizens to adjust their mindset and live a self-sufficient life.
At 13:30 on 26 Mar 2026 GMT+7 at the Government House, Naphinthara Srisunpang, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, said after attending the special Cabinet meeting that many issues were discussed. Resolutions will be announced officially by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Aeknithi Nitithanprapas and Commerce Minister Supachai Sutthampan. When asked if the government can manage, Naphinthara replied, “Yes, definitely.”
When pressed about whether excise tax measures will be used to help reduce fuel prices, Naphinthara said good news is certain, with several measures planned to help the public. These include reducing product prices and ensuring people have fuel for travel during Songkran, along with controlling product prices.
Asked about the atmosphere during the special Cabinet meeting, Naphinthara said it was positive, with everyone contributing ideas to develop measures to assist the public.
At 13:35, Chaiyachon Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DES), also spoke after the special Cabinet meeting, saying the initial discussions focused on preparing short- and long-term responses. Technology will be used to update fuel station statuses so the public can track them without having to check each station individually.
Additionally, discussions included controlling prices of other products linked to fuel, as well as coordinating oil procurement from allied countries.
Regarding the sudden 6-baht surge in fuel prices, Chaiyachon acknowledged the issue and explained the global pricing mechanism. He noted that if prices are artificially suppressed, fuel may leak to countries where prices are market-driven, causing various impacts. He also mentioned efforts to prevent illegal fuel exports, citing examples of “ant armies” disguised as consumers buying fuel to resell elsewhere. He admitted it is impossible to completely stop such activities.
Chaiyachon added that the government is closely monitoring the situation and all ministries must find ways to cope. He emphasized the need for people to adapt and adopt a more sufficient lifestyle, as the situation is expected to persist and impacts may extend beyond fuel. He appealed for everyone’s cooperation, assuring that the government will act swiftly within the constraints of the current Cabinet.