ຂປລ
The Government has assured the public that the fuel supply in the Lao PDR remains manageable despite recent global market disruptions.
At a press briefing held on March 11 at the Prime Minister’s Office of Laos, Sonexay Sithphaxay, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office and Government Spokesperson, together with Chanthaboun Soukaloun, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, provided updates on the fuel supply situation in the country.
Officials said instability in the Middle East since late February 2026 has affected global fuel production and exports from the region, one of the world’s major oil-producing areas. The situation has led to rising fuel prices and reduced import capacity in many countries, including the Lao PDR.
They noted that if the situation persists, it could impact socio-economic development and the implementation of targets set under the national development plan.
The Government has been closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with authorities at all levels to ensure continued fuel supply for public use and development projects. Recent temporary shortages at some fuel stations were mainly due to delays in transporting fuel from storage depots to retail stations.
Authorities have also coordinated with neighboring countries through existing cooperation mechanisms to prepare for potential developments in the global fuel market.
Officials confirmed that current fuel reserves remain sufficient for short-term consumption and that imports are continuing at relatively normal levels. The Government has also prepared emergency response measures covering both the short term (1–30 days) and medium term (3–12 months), which will be adjusted according to developments.
The Government called on civil servants, members of the armed forces, police officers and citizens nationwide to conserve energy and use fuel efficiently, including by reducing unnecessary vehicle use and shifting toward electric vehicles and public transportation where possible.
Businesses were also urged not to take advantage of the situation by raising prices arbitrarily or hoarding fuel and goods. The public is encouraged to report any price manipulation through the consumer protection hotline 1510 or via the website www.lcp.gov.la.
Authorities also called on the public to remain calm, rely on verified information, and maintain unity and solidarity while the Government continues to manage the situation.
KPL
