Thailand’s Department of Energy Business Launches “Fuel Now” App Amid Nationwide Fuel Supply Challenges

*The Phuket Express -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Bangkok, March 24, 2026 – Thailand’s Department of Energy Business (DEB), under the Ministry of Energy, officially launches the “Fuel Now” mobile application on…*

Thailand’s Department of Energy Business introduced the “Fuel Now” mobile application on March 24, aiming to provide real-time updates on fuel availability at gas stations throughout Phuket and the rest of Thailand. The launch follows weeks of supply disruptions and heightened demand, with the new digital tool designed to help motorists locate open stations and available fuel types efficiently.

App Features and Operational Details

The “Fuel Now” platform aggregates live data from provincial energy offices and individual station operators, allowing users to check which stations have petrol or diesel and whether they are currently open. The application requires gas stations to submit status updates through official channels, aiming to centralize information and improve accuracy compared to previous community-driven tools like “Pump Radar.” In addition to showing fuel types, the app indicates if a station is temporarily closed, helping drivers avoid unnecessary travel during shortages. The rollout builds on earlier efforts, such as daily updates posted on Provincial Energy Office Facebook pages, but seeks to streamline and unify information nationwide.

Government Measures and Broader Supply Context

To address ongoing distribution challenges, the Department of Energy Business has directed gas stations to prioritize sales to essential services, including ambulances, fire trucks, government vehicles, and agricultural users. Stations have been instructed not to refuse service to these priority groups, while authorities coordinate 24-hour tanker deliveries and relax restrictions on drawing from reserves. Thailand’s strategic oil reserves currently stand at approximately 103 days of supply, with additional procurement confirmed to bolster stocks. Recent shortages have been linked to increased public demand, panic buying, and international disruptions, particularly from Middle East conflicts impacting global oil routes.

Authorities expect fuel distribution to stabilize within one to two weeks as these measures take effect and have urged the public to use the new app for planning refueling trips rather than hoarding supplies.

Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/03/23/thailands-department-of-energy-business-launches-fuel-now-app-amid-nationwide-fuel-supply-challenges/