Phuket—
Provincial leaders in Phuket have moved swiftly to reassure residents and businesses that fuel supplies remain sufficient despite global concerns over energy security following renewed conflict in the Middle East.
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Governor Nirut Pongsitthavorn tasked Deputy Governor Teerapong Chuaychu with convening a high-level meeting of key agencies, including the Provincial Energy Office, Commerce Office, Public Relations Office, and district administrators. The meeting focused on coordinating efforts to monitor fuel consumption, stabilize commodity prices, and implement energy-saving measures across the province.
Deputy Governor Teerapong said that Phuket is conducting a systematic survey of oil usage across major sectors such as transportation, tourism, fisheries, government operations, and households. The data will be reported to the central government to ensure effective allocation and management of fuel supplies.
Authorities are also urging public agencies to adopt online meetings whenever possible to reduce travel and fuel consumption. Campaigns are underway to encourage the use of energy-efficient vehicles, limit reliance on large fuel-intensive cars, and promote local agricultural markets to cut transport costs and ease living expenses.
In the tourism and maritime sectors, the Marine Department has been instructed to assess shipping routes and fuel usage to optimize energy management. Emergency reserves are being prepared for critical services such as healthcare, rescue operations, and public safety.
Phuket Energy Office Director Rattakorn Klinchan confirmed that fuel supplies remain adequate, though initial public anxiety led to higher-than-normal refueling, causing minor delays in distribution. Meanwhile, Commerce Office Director Waranit Aphiratjirawong reported that branded fuel stations such as PTT, Bangchak, and Caltex continue selling at normal prices under government oversight. Smaller independent stations may charge slightly higher rates due to transport and procurement costs, but overall prices remain stable.
Commodity prices in Phuket have not yet shown significant increases, though officials are monitoring closely. The Commerce Office has warned against hoarding or price gouging, noting that violators face fines up to 140,000 baht or imprisonment of up to seven years.
District Chief Phairoj Srilamoon added that while the government is closely tracking global energy markets, prolonged instability in the Middle East could eventually affect fuel prices. He called on residents and businesses to conserve energy, both fuel and electricity, to strengthen national energy security.
