Today at 12.00 hrs., at Bhakdi Bodin Building, Government House, Ms. Nutta Mahattana, Spokesperson of the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East, briefed the media on measures to address the energy situation and cost-of-living concerns.

Ms. Nutta Mahattana explained that the position of the United States remains unclear regarding whether it will escalate or ease sanctions, and no definite timeline has been announced. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has hosted a meeting with more than 40 countries—without the participation of the United States—to discuss diplomatic approaches to reopening the Strait of Hormuz and managing the conflict once the situation begins to ease. However, a concerning development is the escalation of attacks. Iran has reportedly targeted U.S. technology companies in neighboring countries and has threatened to strike companies in Israel, where a significant number of Thai nationals reside. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs therefore urges Thai citizens to closely follow official updates through the Ministry’s communication channels. The Government continues to give the highest priority to ensuring the safety of Thai nationals in Israel during this period.

The Ministry of Energy reported that the current energy situation remains normal, with both domestic production and fuel reserves stable and supplies being continuously secured. During the upcoming Songkran festival, fuel stations across the country are not expected to face shortages, provided that fuel consumption remains within normal levels similar to previous years. In addition, the Ministry of Transport has prepared contingency measures by arranging oil transport vehicles to serve as backup supply points in case of exceptionally high demand in certain areas.
Regarding cost-of-living assistance, the Ministry of Commerce has intensified supervision of the prices of goods and services. Business operators are required to clearly display product prices and are prohibited from selling goods at unreasonably high prices or engaging in hoarding practices. Members of the public who observe such violations can report them to the Department of Internal Trade hotline at 1569.

At the same time, the Ministry has launched the “Blue Flag Discount” campaign to help reduce living expenses from 2–10 April. In Bangkok, the campaign will be organized in Min Buri District at Wat Bamphen Nuea from 3–5 April, in Don Mueang District at Wat Sikan from 4–6 April, in Nong Chok District at the Chalong Krung Housing Sports Field from 7–9 April, and in Khlong Sam Wa District at 5-Intersection Phraya Suren Market from 8–10 April. 1/2 In the provinces, the campaign will also be held in Prachin Buri Province at the activity area of 304 Industrial Estate (304 Plaza Market), Si Maha Phot District, from 8–10 April. Essential consumer goods are being offered at discounted prices to help ease the burden associated with rising energy costs. For example, cooking oil (1 liter) is reduced from 50 baht to 43 baht, No. 2 chicken eggs from 125 baht to 95 baht, white sugar from 28 baht to 23 baht, and Hom Mali rice from 180 baht to 110 baht per bag.

The spokesperson concluded by noting that during the transition period of the government, the center will conclude its mandate together with the current administration. If future press briefings are not held, the public can continue to follow updates directly from relevant government agencies: the Ministry of Energy for oil-related matters, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for overseas safety information, the Ministry of Commerce for updates on prices of goods, and the Ministry of Finance for economic relief measures. The center’s Facebook page will continue to compile useful information and communicate updates to the public.