Myanmar's Irrawaddy Region Faces Doubled Fuel Prices Amid Reduced Quotas
Fuel prices in Myanmar's Irrawaddy Region, specifically in townships like Pathein, Hinthada, and Myaungmya, have surged from 5,500-7,500 MMK ($1.16-1.58 USD) to 10,000-15,000 MMK ($2.10-3.16 USD) per liter. This significant increase, which has been steadily climbing since the beginning of the month, is causing considerable hardship for motorists and businesses. According to a petrol station owner in Ayeyarwady, the regime’s Ministry of Energy has reduced fuel quotas, leading to a widespread shortage. Residents report that daily transportation costs have risen sharply, forcing taxi drivers and business owners to resort to purchasing fuel on the black market. In October, police in Pathein arrested four petrol station owners for illegally storing fuel, acting on a tip from the Petroleum Products Regulatory Department (PPRD).