Thai transport minister denies plans for petrol tax hike

Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit has clarified that the proposed excise tax increase on petrol in Greater Bangkok is merely a proposal, and there are no current plans for its implementation.

This statement came yesterday, December 22, following misunderstandings about the proposal’s intent and potential ramifications.

Suriya apologised for any confusion, explaining that the idea of the tax increase was a case study, modelled after similar initiatives in other countries. He reiterated that there was no immediate plan to put this idea into action.

The Transport Ministry’s primary focus, according to Suriya, is to reduce living costs. He outlined a plan to cap electric train fares at 20 baht per trip, which is expected to take effect within the next two years. Importantly, this cap would be implemented without the need for petrol tax…