The Prime Minister expressed thanks to the Thai people for helping save energy, which has driven up oil stockpiles. The Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council warned that the world is on the verge of facing an economic crisis similar to previous high oil price shocks, and the tags are [energy conservation, oil reserves, economic crisis, Thailand, government response].
On 8 April 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Danucha Pichayanan, Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council, reported after meeting Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on the energy situation that diesel fuel consumption by the public has significantly dropped—from an average of 82 million liters per day to only 45–56 million liters in recent days. The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to the public for their cooperation in saving energy, which has enabled Thailand to accumulate greater oil reserves and extend usage duration amid uncertainties in the Middle East. Although the U.S. recently announced a two-week delay in attacking Iran, close monitoring remains necessary.
Mr. Danucha clarified the oil stock details, stating that current legal oil reserves cover 25 days, with an additional 18–20 days' stock available for sale. The reduction in public consumption not only helps increase reserves but also eases the burden on oil refineries, which had been operating above 100% capacity for two weeks; this allows a return to normal operation, reducing risks of production system damage. Furthermore, it benefits fiscal status by lowering the fuel fund's daily expenditure from 1.5 billion baht to about 1.2 billion baht, slowing the rise of public debt and enabling the government to allocate budgets to assist businesses and citizens in other areas.
Regarding concerns about oil shortages during the Songkran festival, the Secretary-General assured that "there will be no shortage." Data from PTT and Bangchak show that the distribution system has normalized for the past 2–3 days. Discussions on setting operating hours for fuel stations are ongoing to avoid impacting truck operators and the transport sector. Additionally, he warned the public to prepare for a major adjustment, as the current high oil price crisis could escalate into a new global economic problem. He urged everyone to change their lifestyle and energy-saving habits now to build long-term resilience.