Thailand has implemented a nationwide fuel price hike, with diesel rising by ฿0.70 and gasoline by ฿0.80 per litre. This decision follows a surge in global energy costs driven by Middle East tensions, which has also pushed the Oil Fuel Fund deficit to over ฿83 billion. Simultaneously, Thailand reported a 2.53% headline inflation rate for August, marking five consecutive months of growth with price increases observed in 310 monitored goods. Despite these economic pressures, consumer confidence has shown signs of recovery, bolstered by government stimulus programs and improved agricultural prices. However, officials remain cautious as these support measures expire in September, coinciding with persistent inflationary risks in food, transport, and energy sectors. The government continues to balance domestic retail price subsidies against the rapidly deteriorating financial position of the state fuel fund.
Source : Thai Examiner
