Chumphon: People rushed to fill up their gas tanks after prices surged, resulting in a twofold increase in sales. Caltex announced a price increase for fuel, effective immediately. Fuel consumers rushed to fill up their tanks. The Australian Group in Chumphon and Ranong reported a twofold increase in sales.
According to Thai News Agency, Caltex announced this morning a price increase of 90 satang per liter for G95, G91, and E20 fuels, and 1.80 baht per liter for diesel. Gasoline (ULG) and Power Diesel remain unchanged. The price adjustments take effect March 3rd at 11:00 AM. This makes Caltex the second oil retailer, after Shell, to raise retail fuel prices following events in the Middle East that have driven up crude oil and energy prices.
Oil retailers reported that people were rushing to fill up their tanks because, even though the Ministry of Energy was using the Fuel Fund mechanism to regulate prices, retail prices were expected to eventually increase, such as at PTT gas stations (part of the Australian chain).
The Khao Peep branch in Thung Tako District, Chumphon Province, saw a 120% increase in sales compared to normal levels. The PTT Bang Rin gas station in Mueang Ranong District, Ranong Province, experienced very long queues and a 100% increase in sales. The gas station owner stated they would extend fuel sales hours until customers finished filling their tanks.