The Department of Energy Business has ordered oil traders to suspend diesel exports while Thai Oil Plc repairs its crude distillation unit in Chon Buri province.
Director-general Sarawut Kaewtathip said on Wednesday suspension of shipments was aimed at preventing local shortages of diesel during the 13-day maintenance period ending on Jan 28.
During the maintenance period, the diesel supply will fall by 240 million litres. Thailand consumes 68-72 million litres of diesel a day, he said.