Thailand and Vietnam have introduced emergency measures to reduce energy consumption, including promoting remote work, as fuel prices soar and supply chains face disruption from the escalating conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. Officials in both countries are scrambling to stabilize their energy markets, which are heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil.

Fuel Prices Surge and Supply Chains Strain

Thailand’s government has mandated that government offices set air conditioners to 26 degrees Celsius to conserve energy, while also encouraging public and private employees to work from home where possible. The move comes after the country secured a two-month oil supply but suspended exports to conserve reserves.

“The government wants all sectors to use resources wisely and effectively,” a government statement said, adding that officials should avoid traveling abroad during the crisis. To further stabilize the market, the government also imposed a cap on diesel prices at below 30 baht per liter for 15 days.

In Vietnam, the government has waived import duties on petroleum products to prevent shortages and stabilize the domestic market. The measure, effective until the end of April, aims to increase the supply of fuel as prices have risen sharply in recent weeks.

Impact on Daily Life and Transportation

Long lines of cars and motorbikes have formed at gas stations in Hanoi, with some stations temporarily closing or reducing operating hours due to dwindling supplies. According to data from leading fuel trader Petrolimex, fuel prices in Vietnam have risen by 32 percent, diesel by 56 percent, and kerosene by 80 percent since the end of last month.

A 57-year-old man named Tuan, waiting in line at a Hanoi gas station, expressed frustration. “I still have enough to run my motorbike today, but I definitely have to fill it tonight. Then I have to queue again tonight?” he said, highlighting the growing inconvenience for ordinary citizens.

Vietnam’s government has also urged the public to limit the use of private vehicles and instead opt for public transportation, cycling, or ride-sharing. Prime Minister Pham Minh Minh has been in contact with leaders from Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to secure fuel and crude oil supplies, signaling the government’s efforts to mitigate the crisis.

Regional Vulnerability and Forward-Looking Measures

Vietnam is among the most affected countries in Southeast Asia due to its heavy reliance on energy imports from the Middle East. The government has acknowledged that the current situation is the result of the ongoing conflict in the region, which has disrupted global oil markets and caused ripple effects across the supply chain.

Analysts warn that without sustained efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce dependency on Middle Eastern oil, similar crises could recur in the future. Some experts suggest that regional cooperation and investment in renewable energy could be viable long-term solutions.

Both Thailand and Vietnam have also emphasized the need for energy conservation in the public and private sectors, with officials urging companies to implement remote work policies and reduce energy consumption. The measures are part of a broader strategy to ensure energy security amid global geopolitical tensions.

“The situation highlights the vulnerability of countries like Vietnam and Thailand to global energy price fluctuations,” said one industry analyst. “It’s a wake-up call for governments to rethink their energy strategies and diversify their supply sources.”

As the conflict in the Middle East continues, the impact on fuel supply and prices is expected to remain a key concern for Southeast Asian nations. Both Thailand and Vietnam are closely monitoring the situation, with officials preparing for potential further disruptions in the coming months.