BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has clarified that reports of plans to discontinue Gasohol 91 and Gasohol 95 sales are premature, stressing that the proposed transition towards E20 fuel has no fixed timetable and will depend on further studies and public preparedness.
Speaking to reporters on November 11, Anutin, who also serves as Interior Minister, was asked about reports that the government intended to stop selling Gasohol 91 and 95, leaving only conventional petrol and E20 available.
When asked who had made the announcement, Anutin questioned the source, saying that he could not be expected to respond to media reports alone. He described the change as a future direction under Thailand’s broader energy transition.
Anutin explained that the government wants to encourage greater use of fuels containing biofuel components, particularly ethanol in petrol and biodiesel in diesel, as part of efforts to reduce pollution and dependence on imported crude oil.
The Energy Ministry is discussing the matter with automobile manufacturers to provide clear information about which vehicle models and production years can safely use fuels such as E20 and B20. The aim is to build public confidence before encouraging wider adoption.
However, Anutin stressed that this does not mean Gasohol 91 and 95 will disappear immediately.
Asked how long the transition would take, he said there was no specific number of years, explaining that changes would be introduced progressively as preparations advanced.
He added that Thailand has several energy sources available and should make greater use of alternatives that can reduce global warming, carbon dioxide emissions, pollution and the country’s expenditure on crude oil imports.
Regarding reports suggesting that the change could begin in 2027, Anutin said the necessary preparations must come first. Any proposal submitted for his approval would need to be supported by proper studies, figures and information.
He criticized reports suggesting that he had already approved the plan, emphasizing that decisions on such an important energy policy must be based on evidence rather than speculation.
For now, motorists can continue using Gasohol 91 and 95, with no immediate change to fuel availability announced by the government.
