Rising fuel costs threaten prices of essential goodsBottles of palm oil at a market in Nonthaburi province. File photoRising fuel and transport costs are threatening to drive up prices of essential goods as the Commerce Ministry seeks to stabilise retail prices until April. Wholesale prices have increased from 41-42 baht to 48-49 baht per bottle, pushing retail prices in small shops to 50-53 baht. Two main factors are driving the increase in palm oil prices: government policies promoting biodiesel, which have diverted crude palm oil into fuel production, reducing supply for consumption; and rising packaging costs, particularly for plastic bottles. "As a controlled product under the Price of Goods and Services Act, bottled palm oil remains subject to regulatory oversight."

Source: Bangkok Post March 21, 2026 23:07 UTC