The Center for Middle East Situation Management (CEMS) admits heavy oil price volatility, explains the midnight price hike, and says the government lacks authority to borrow funds to support the oil fund. It warns that if the crisis expands, vehicle use restrictions may be implemented.
On 31 March 2026 at the Government House, Ms. Nattha Mahattana, spokesperson for the Center for Middle East Situation Management (CEMS), held her first press conference after taking office. She admitted that Thailand's energy situation is at crisis level 2 and could escalate to level 3 if a key strait in the Middle East is completely closed.
The CEMS spokesperson and the oil fund clarified that it is necessary to adjust oil prices according to the global market, which fluctuates hourly, to prevent mass buying causing shortages and smuggling abroad. They expressed regret for causing public distress and fears that prevent people from being home before 10 p.m. but insisted the situation forced this action. They acknowledged that the current government lacks full authority to expand borrowing to support the oil fund as during the Russia-Ukraine crisis and cannot immediately reduce excise taxes. Therefore, they must use real price adjustments to maintain liquidity.
The CEMS spokesperson also said the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy revealed contingency plans for severe shortages, possibly adopting South Korea's measures: rationing oil with priority for emergency vehicles and restricting vehicle use days, such as allowing driving only five days per week. Electricity use may also be limited if energy disappears from the system. Pickup trucks and trucks compatible with B20 biodiesel can fuel up to reduce costs. Additionally, a "Thailand Helps Thailand" project is being prepared, in which the Ministry of Commerce partners with retail stores to significantly reduce consumer goods prices tomorrow.
CEMS affirmed that going forward, their work will emphasize transparency and straightforward communication. They asked the public to understand that this war situation directly affects Thailand's main oil supply sources. The government therefore requests cooperation from all sectors to endure and conserve energy together to overcome this crisis.