Energy Ministry cracks down on adulterated oil

Thailand’s Energy Business Department Director-General Ongart Promjanyakul said the Energy Ministry has imposed more stringent measures against the sale of adulterated fuel. Currently, service-station operators found to be selling adulterated fuel face a flat-rate fine of 5,000 baht (US$150), according to Peerapol Sakarin, director-general of the Department of Energy Business. Based on the Energy Ministry’s survey of 11,771 service stations nationwide, about 374 were found to be selling adulterated fuel and misleading motorists about the type of fuel they were selling, so that they could increase profit margins. With the new measures in place, oil retailers will now be required to add pigment to various types of petrol to make them more distinguishable, and will be faced with progressive fines that could be 20 times the current level, Bangkok Post reports. Retailers found to be selling adulterated oil are subject to a maximum fine of 100,000 baht (US$3,017) and will face legal action if caught for a third time. (December 10, 2009)