Energy Ministry says Thai diesel cheaper than Malaysia

2026-03-23 - 08:30

BANGKOK — The Energy Ministry on 23 March insisted that domestic diesel and petrol prices remain under control despite rising global oil prices triggered by the Middle East conflict. Speaking at Government House, Watcharin Boonrit, Deputy Director of the Energy Policy and Planning Office, said Dubai crude surged to US$158 per barrel on 20 March, up 122% from pre-crisis levels, putting pressure on Thailand’s energy costs. However, the government has used the Oil Fuel Fund to stabilise domestic prices and limit the impact on living costs. Retail diesel prices currently stand at 31.14 baht per litre, while gasohol E10 is priced at 33.50 baht per litre. Authorities have also promoted the use of biofuels, including biodiesel, to reduce reliance on imports. The ministry said fuel prices across ASEAN have continued to rise, including in Malaysia, Vietnam and Singapore. Diesel prices in Malaysia have reached around 38–39 baht per litre, higher than Thailand’s levels. Officials said the government will continue to manage prices to ease the burden on consumers while maintaining the stability of the Oil Fuel Fund, and urged the public to conserve energy.