Thailand Manages the Middle East Crisis: Energy, Living Costs & Citizen Safety

The Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East held a press briefing on 23 March 2026, addressing key concerns on energy, prices, and the safety of Thai citizens abroad.

∙Speakers:
1. Panidorn Pachimsawat
Acting Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
2. Kanitha Kangswanich
Inspector-General and Deputy Spokesperson, Ministry of Commerce
3. Watcharin Boonyarit
Deputy Director-General of the Energy Policy and Planning Office, Ministry of Energy

The briefing covered four key areas of public concern: the impact of rising global oil prices on domestic fuel costs, measures to control the cost of living, the latest developments in the Middle East, and the government's ongoing efforts to assist Thai citizens in affected areas. Here is a summary of the key points addressed.
∙Fuel Prices
Global crude oil prices have surged 122% since early March, with Dubai crude reaching USD 158 per barrel. The government is using the Oil Fuel Fund to stabilize domestic prices — diesel is currently THB 31.40/liter (~USD 0.95/liter) and Gasohol E10 at THB 33.05/liter (~USD 1.00/liter), remaining significantly lower than neighboring countries, where diesel reaches THB 38–39/liter (~USD 1.15–1.18/liter) in Malaysia. Additional measures include adjusting the biodiesel ratio from B5 to B7 and pricing Gasohol E20 at THB 5/liter (~USD 0.15/liter) below E10 to encourage alternative energy use.

∙Cost of Living
The Ministry of Commerce is monitoring 59 controlled items and has expanded "Blue Flag" affordable product outlets nationwide. Essential goods such as rice, sugar, soap, and fish sauce are available at special prices. Citizens can report concerns via the 24-hour hotline 1569.

∙Middle East Situation & Assistance to Thai Citizens
Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz remain high, affecting global energy markets. Since the onset of the crisis, 1,479 Thai citizens have been evacuated from high-risk areas. Most recently, 14 Thai workers from Bandar Abbas, Iran, were evacuated to Turkey on 23 March for repatriation to Thailand.

The government urges Thai citizens abroad to avoid high-risk areas, register with Thai embassies, and follow official guidance closely.