Fuel prices in Eastern Shan State have skyrocketed after Thailand suspended fuel exports to Myanmar on February 5. This drastic measure aims to address concerns over money laundering linked to online scams, but the immediate consequence has been a severe fuel shortage in the region. Many petrol stations have been forced to close, with tankers stranded on the Thai side of the border in Mae Sai.

Residents of Tachileik are feeling the pinch, as fuel prices have surged from approximately 30 baht per liter to a staggering 100 baht (13,500 kyats) per liter. Some enterprising vendors have resorted to selling fuel in makeshift containers like water bottles and large Coca-Cola bottles, with prices reaching as high as 200 baht per liter.

“I bought fuel earlier at the old price, but now I’m shocked by how much it costs. Some shops limit purchases to motorbike or car owners, but the long queues make it nearly impossible to fill up,” a Tachileik resident shared with the SHAN.

The fuel crisis is not limited to Tachileik; neighboring townships like Mong Hsat and Mong Ton are also experiencing acute shortages, exacerbated by bulk buying. In response to the escalating situation, local authorities in Mong Hsat have prohibited sales in containers, and one fuel vendor was arrested on February 5.

This export suspension coincides with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s recent trip to Beijing, where she met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The discussions reportedly focused on collaborative measures to combat illicit financial activities associated with online scamming, indicating a broader regional effort to tackle these pressing issues.

As the situation unfolds, residents are left grappling with the realities of inflated fuel prices and dwindling supplies, underscoring the economic and social impacts of government decisions aimed at curbing illegal activities.