Thailand considers a 1 baht diesel excise tax cut to mitigate rising energy costs, with PM Anutin rejecting claims of favouring big business.
BANGKOK: Thailand is considering a cut to diesel excise tax as the government explores measures to ease public financial burdens.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul (pic) said Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has proposed a 1 baht reduction.
The consideration also factors in price differentials with neighbouring countries like Malaysia to prevent cross-border fuel diversion.
Safeguards must be in place to prevent stockpiling, Anutin noted.
He rejected allegations that his administration favours large business interests during the global energy crisis.
“There is no way I would consider anyone more important than the people,” he said.
Anutin stressed it would be unthinkable to prioritise anyone above the public who elected him.
He underscored the need for clear communication to avoid confusion amid varying media narratives.
Meanwhile, Thailand’s diesel price rose by 3.50 baht to 44.24 baht per litre.
This followed the Oil Fuel Fund Management Committee approving a reduction in diesel subsidy rates.
Petrol prices also increased by 1.20 baht per litre.
Gasohol 95 is now priced at 43.25 baht per litre and Gasahol 91 at 42.88 baht per litre.