When your petrol stations start rationing diesel in Thailand's second-largest city, the energy crisis has crossed from economic abstraction into daily reality.
Chiang Mai Runs Out of Diesel
Chiang Mai is facing a worsening diesel shortage, with many petrol stations running dry, strict purchase limits imposed, and transport operators warning of service disruptions, according to Nation Thailand. Northern bus operator Greenbus warned that diesel shortages driven by Middle East supply disruption could force fare hikes and route cuts.
For a city that depends on road transport for everything — from tourists heading to temples to produce reaching morning markets — diesel rationing isn't just inconvenient. It's economically paralyzing.
The New Cabinet Takes Shape
The Anutin II Cabinet list has been finalized, with the new lineup expected to be submitted for royal command on March 27, according to Nation Thailand. Background checks are underway — the formality before what promises to be one of the most challenging terms any Thai government has faced in decades.
TRIS Rating warned that Thailand's 2026 GDP growth could slow from a 2.1% baseline to just 1% if the Iran conflict drags on, as reported by Nation Thailand. When ratings agencies start modeling worst-case scenarios publicly, the private conversations are probably grimmer still.
Petrochemical costs and energy-intensive sectors are under mounting pressure as the Middle East war disrupts supply chains and drives up plastic prices, according to Nation Thailand. The ripple effects are spreading from fuel pumps to factory floors.
Source: Nation Thailand
