PTT supports gradual fuel price increases
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PTT, the national energy firm, supports the gradual increase in fuel prices from October onwards.
Saran Rungkasiri, chief operating officer for PTT's downstream petrochemical business group, said today that after the increases fuel prices would reflect the actual cost. He noted that diesel should have been retailed at over Bt30 a litre, if actual costs are factored in.
The timing is right, he said, as the global prices have eased. Diesel pump prices once hit Bt33 in Thailand, he noted.
He also supported the increases in LPG and NGV pump prices.
He believed that the increases would slightly boost cost of living, given state programmes to assist low-income earners.
Meanwhile, former prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva warned that diesel price hikes may push up transportation and manufacturing cost.
The benefits, through lower subsidies, may not compensate the disadvantages, he said. If possible, the prices should be stabilised.
He reiterated that energy reforms should not be implemented if all matters involved are not thoroughly considered.
