Diesel Shortages Hit Thailand as Long Queues Form Nationwide
Diesel Shortages Hit Thailand as Long Queues Form Nationwide
BANGKOK, March 23, 2026 — Thailand is facing widespread diesel shortages across multiple provinces, with long queues forming at petrol stations and disruptions affecting transport, agriculture and daily life.
In northern Phrae province, several stations in Long district have run out of diesel, leaving drivers stranded while awaiting new deliveries. Only limited gasoline supplies remain, with some pumps forced to close temporarily.
In central Chainat, residents began lining up as early as 5 a.m. at a Shell petrol station, where a shipment of 3,000 litres was exhausted within 90 minutes as farmers and drivers rushed to secure fuel for transport and irrigation.
Similar scenes were reported in northeastern Nakhon Ratchasima, where pickups, trucks and heavy vehicles queued at stations in Siw and Buayai districts. Some outlets allowed customers to fill jerrycans, but supplies remained insufficient to meet demand.
In southern Krabi, queues stretched across multiple stations, with deliveries of around 8,000 litres running out within hours. Traffic along major roads was lighter than usual during the Hari Raya holiday as fuel shortages curtailed travel.
The shortages, ongoing since last week, have created mounting difficulties for commuters, freight operators and farmers who rely heavily on diesel for daily operations.
Thai authorities said national fuel reserves remain sufficient for around three months of demand, attributing the shortages to distribution and transportation bottlenecks rather than a structural supply deficit.
The government is working to boost crude oil stockpiles, secure alternative supply sources and increase the use of biodiesel to ease pressure on diesel availability. Officials are also considering price controls and tax reductions, while coordinating emergency measures to ensure critical services such as ambulances and agricultural activities continue uninterrupted.
Business groups, including transport operators, have urged authorities to cap diesel prices and provide further relief to offset rising costs.
Thai Enquirer
