The Lao State Fuel Enterprise and PTT (Laos) Co., Ltd. plan to import 14 million litres of diesel to stabilise the supply of fuel in Laos amid ongoing disruptions in the global oil industry.
The plan was announced at a press conference held at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce on Tuesday.
The news briefing was co-chaired by the Head of Office of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Dr Bouavanh Vilavong; President of the Fuel and Gas Association and Director of the Lao State Fuel Enterprise, Mr Viengthong Vongthavilay; and Managing Director of PTT (Lao) Co., Ltd., Mr Peravej Na Ranong.
Dr Bouavanh said the planned import of diesel aims to strengthen Laos’ energy security in line with Government Order No. 40/PM, issued in response to the conflict in the Middle East that has disrupted global oil supply chains.
These disruptions have led to irregular deliveries and increased demand, severely affecting fuel availability in Laos.
The Lao State Fuel Enterprise and PTT (Laos) Co., Ltd. acknowledged that, despite ongoing efforts to procure fuel, challenges in sourcing and transportation have impacted their ability to fully meet demand.
To address the situation, the two parties have signed an agreement to jointly import 14 million litres of diesel directly from international suppliers, with delivery expected no later than the middle of April.
Managing Director of PTT (Lao) Co., Ltd., Mr Peravej Na Ranong, said diesel remains essential for households and industry, accounting for more than 80 percent of fuel consumption in transportation and other commercial activities.
“We are initially targeting the import of diesel early next month,” he said. “We are working closely with the Lao State Fuel Enterprise to identify solutions and expand import channels.”
Additional fuel imports are also planned in subsequent phases to ensure longer-term supply stability.
Authorities reassured the public that sufficient fuel will be available and expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by earlier shortages, urging confidence as efforts continue to stabilise the market.
