Farmers in Phichit province arrive with pickup trucks carrying fuel tanks on Tuesday night, queuing to buy diesel at a petrol station, amid concerns about possible fuel shortages caused by tensions in the Middle East. (Photo: Sitthipoj Kebui)Businesses have been cautioned not to exploit the uncertainty of the Middle East conflict by raising goods prices without justification. Ms Airin said that retailers and business operators must not take advantage of the situation and strictly comply with the Price of Goods and Services Act, which prohibits unfair price increases, hoarding of goods or any conduct that exploits consumers. Baseless price increases carry a maximum penalty of up to seven years in prison and/or a fine of up to 140,000 baht under the act. On Wednesday, the Ministry of Energy announced it will spend the state Oil Fuel Fund to maintain diesel and petrol prices for 15 days amid rising global oil prices due to the Middle East situation.

Source: Bangkok Post March 04, 2026 08:01 UTC