Reviewing the measures controlling gas station opening and closing times amid a severe oil shortage crisis; Thailand has implemented controls twice before. Anutin plans to start on 20 April.
Looking back at the history of controlled fuel dispensing times in Thailand and examining the latest measures in 2026.
Thailand has previously used the measure of "closing gas stations at specified times" to address two major energy crises:
1973-1974: During the first global oil crisis (Oil Shock), the government ordered gas stations to close at night to reduce electricity use and unnecessary travel.
1979-1981: During the second global oil crisis caused by the Iran-Iraq war, the government of General Prem Tinsulanonda issued a ban on fuel sales from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. (later relaxed to 10 p.m.) to save foreign currency used for oil imports.
Regarding the recent developments in 2026, during a period of energy shortage and high prices, the "restricted sales hours" policy includes the following details.
Schedule and times:
Expected enforcement start date: 20 April 2026, after the Songkran festival, to avoid disrupting travel back to hometowns.
Sales suspension hours: 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next day.
The government is promoting clean energy use and supporting the transport sector, so it allows gas stations to sell certain fuels 24 hours, including:
Gasohol E20: to promote ethanol-blended fuel.
Diesel B20: to support trucks and the transport sector, preventing impacts on consumer goods prices.
Reducing oil imports: The rising global oil prices have caused trade deficits, so the government wants to cut non-essential nighttime fuel consumption.
Energy shortage: Geopolitical issues have made crude oil supply more difficult.
Psychological measure: To encourage public awareness of the crisis and to seriously conserve energy.
Summary comparison table of control times.
Topic. | Past measures (1979). | Measures in 2026 (current government). |
Closing time. | 6 p.m. / 10 p.m. | 10 p.m. |
Opening time. | 6 a.m. | 5 a.m. |
Exceptions. | Almost none (except emergency vehicles). | E20 and B20 sold 24 hours. |
Main goal. | Reduce foreign currency spending on imports. | Reduce energy use and promote clean energy. |