PATTAYA, Thailand – Small-scale fishermen in Thailand are beginning to feel the impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with some unable to go out to sea due to difficulties purchasing fuel, according to industry representatives.
The Samut Prakan Fisheries Association has submitted a letter outlining the problem to the National Fisheries Association of Thailand, saying the unrest in the Middle East has created concern over fuel supply and distribution.
As a result, local fishermen have reportedly been unable to buy fuel in containers from petrol stations as they previously did, preventing some boats from leaving port and forcing them to suspend fishing activities.
Trairerk Muesanthad, president of the National Fisheries Association of Thailand, said the organization has acknowledged the difficulties faced by small-scale fishermen and has formally raised the issue with the government, requesting urgent measures to address the situation and provide assistance to those affected.
The association is also conducting a broader assessment of how the Middle East conflict could impact Thailand’s fishing industry overall. The review will examine rising fuel costs, operational challenges for fishing vessels, and potential effects throughout the seafood supply chain.
Findings from the assessment will be compiled for discussions with the government on possible response measures.
Earlier, the National Fisheries Association of Thailand also submitted a letter to the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of Thailand requesting an extension for loan repayment deadlines under a fisheries liquidity support credit program.
The request followed concerns raised by members during the association’s annual general meeting on February 27, 2026, where fishermen warned that many operators are struggling to meet repayment schedules as the initial loan terms approach their due dates.
Members proposed extending repayment periods to ease the financial burden on fishing operators and suggested that relief measures should also cover the second and third phases of the credit program.
Industry leaders say the situation highlights how global geopolitical tensions can quickly ripple through local industries, particularly those heavily dependent on fuel. (TNA)
