Residents say fuel shortages have reoccurred in the western part of Demoso Township starting on May 7. At the beginning of May, gasoline prices had dropped from 14,000 kyats per liter to around 8,000 kyats per liter. However, locals say fuel has now become unavailable again.

A female trader explained that the shortage is due to difficulties in purchasing fuel in Taungoo, from where fuel is transported into Karenni State. However, she also urged people not to panic over the shortage.

“More fuel will arrive again. No need to worry about. Some people panic and rush to buy large amounts, which creates the fuel to run out even faster, and leads to market manipulation. Even when the next supply arrives, I think prices will likely rise a bit, not too much,” she said.

The trader added that because fuel demand is high, the market also becomes unstable, causing fuel prices to fluctuate rapidly and shortages to happen more quickly.

A displaced woman also said that as of yesterday, gasoline was still available at 8,500 kyats per liter, but many fuel shops had closed, making it impossible to buy fuel.

Meanwhile, tensions between the United States and Iran continue in the Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes. Although both countries reportedly agreed to a two-week ceasefire on April 7, there has been renewed exchange of fire in the strait.