Economy
Democrat Party Urges Expansion of Fuel Tax Cuts Beyond E20 and B20
A Democrat Party representative has called on the Thai government to extend proposed excise tax cuts to include B7 diesel to better address transportation costs and living expenses.
On September 22, 2026, Trirath Sirichantaropas, a member of the Democrat Party’s energy economic team, addressed recent statements by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas regarding potential excise tax reductions for E20 and B20 fuel types. While acknowledging the government's willingness to use tax policy to mitigate energy costs, Trirath argued that the current proposal is insufficient.
Trirath highlighted that the daily consumption of E20 and B20 fuels is relatively low compared to B7 diesel, which serves as the primary fuel for the logistics and transportation sector. He emphasized that failing to include B7 in the tax relief measures limits the potential impact on reducing overall commodity prices and the cost of living for the general public. By targeting B7, the party believes the government could more effectively lower structural energy costs.
For residents and travelers, this debate is significant as fuel prices directly influence the cost of goods and public transportation services across Thailand. While the government has signaled an openness to tax adjustments, it remains to be confirmed whether the Ministry of Finance will expand the scope of these cuts to include B7 diesel or if the policy will remain restricted to the currently proposed fuel types. Further announcements from the Ministry are expected as they finalize the details of the relief package.
