“Economic Party” urges reduction in fuel tax and refining costs , pushes for liberalized oil imports

Today (8 April) 11:30 AM at the Parliament, Mr. Chris Potranan, a List MP from the Economic Party, held a press conference, calling for a reduction in excise tax and oil refining costs and announcing his eligibility for a lifetime MP pension after only one year of service. He stated that the hardship faced by people nationwide is due to the soaring price of diesel to 50 baht per liter. He called for liberalized oil imports, noting discussions last week on ways to import refined oil at world market prices. He argued that if successful, this would reduce the price by 7-10 baht per liter and eliminate the debate over refining costs. This morning, the Prime Minister met with the Russian Ambassador to Thailand, and we hope for positive developments. If the Prime Minister can negotiate with Russia to import cheaper oil into Thailand, the six refineries will no longer be able to take advantage of Thailand, and Thai people will have the opportunity to use cheaper oil.

Mr. Chris further stated that he places his hopes on the Prime Minister to achieve this. The minister of energy announced the use of the emergency decree to control fuel prices, which could reduce refining costs by 2 baht per liter. The economic party thanks the minister for recognizing the people's hardship. Regarding the approach to solving the problem, discussions with the six refineries are needed to reduce the soaring refining costs. Previously, refining costs in Thailand were 2 baht per liter, but now they have risen to 18 baht per liter. However, we hope the government can reduce the excise tax by 7 baht per liter. The Economic Party requests that the government exempt the 7 baht per liter excise tax as soon as possible. If this is achieved, the price of diesel will immediately drop from 50 baht per liter to 43 baht per liter.

Mr. Chris also stated that the Economic Party expresses its stance on the management of the fund for former members of parliament. The Economic Party announced its intention to abolish pensions for Members of Parliament (MPs) in order to save the country's budget. The party also declared that its three MPs would not be receiving benefits from the former parliamentary pension fund.

Meanwhile, Mr. Peerapol Kanokwalai, a list MP from the Economic Party, received a letter from Mr. Jeerasak Noikam, a representative of sugarcane farmers from the eastern and northeastern regions, and his group regarding the draft Sugarcane and Sugar Act (Amendment...). B.E. .... They requested the party's support for the farmers, and the matter will be brought before the House of Representatives.

Photo : Weeraphat Ratsameerueangrong