NAY PYI TAW, March 22 – The National Defense and Security Council (NDSC) and the Ministry of Energy have jointly announced sweeping measures aimed at conserving fuel amid ongoing Middle East conflicts that threaten energy supply lines. These measures include a mandatory weekly work-from-home day for government employees and a new rationed fuel purchasing system for all vehicles.

According to a directive from the NDSC, starting March 25, 2026, all government employees will perform their duties from home every Wednesday, rather than commuting to their respective offices. The directive emphasizes that on these designated days, employees must avoid non-essential travel and minimize vehicle usage to maximize fuel savings. Private sector enterprises are also urged to align with this effort by implementing similar Work-From-Home (WFH) arrangements wherever possible.

This directive is a proactive response to prepare for potential energy challenges and shortages stemming from global instability. The NDSC Information Team clarified that while current fuel reserves are sufficient, this is a preemptive measure to ensure long-term stability in line with the global situation.

Concurrently, the Ministry of Energy is introducing a new rationed fuel system starting the first week of April 2026. This system will utilize a Bar Code scan for cars and a QR Code for motorcycles to regulate fuel purchases at all filling stations nationwide.

The main highlights of this new system include:

    Restricted Frequency: Vehicles will be limited to purchasing fuel a maximum of two times per week, based on their engine power quotas. This total amount can be purchased at once or split into two times.

    Technological Monitoring: The system will automatically check vehicle eligibility to prevent multiple daily fill-ups.

    Sufficient Reserves: The Ministry of Energy reassured the public that Myanmar currently maintains a 50-day reserve of fuel and is securing new import routes, urging citizens not to panic-buy or hoard.

Non-compliance with the new regulations, especially by fuel business owners overcharging or misusing the system, will lead to serious legal action, including the revocation of licenses.

These combined measures on transportation and purchasing are intended to effectively manage Myanmar’s fuel consumption and ensure equitable access to energy resources for all citizens until further notice.

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