CHAINAT, THAILAND – Rising fuel prices largely shut down motorbike taxi services at Chai Nat’s fresh market, leaving only one rider still operating and charging 20–30% higher fares while saving fuel by driving more slowly.
Motorbike taxis at fresh market almost gone
At the municipal fresh market in Chai Nat, more than ten motorbike taxis had previously been in service. Most riders had since stopped operating.
The reason was sharply increased fuel costs, which made the service economically untenable for many operators. According to the report, only one driver remained in service, still transporting passengers.
High fuel costs as main problem
The remaining rider described the rising fuel prices as a major burden for everyone working in passenger transport. After deducting ongoing expenses, many were left with very little income.
Many operators had therefore suspended their work for the time being because they could no longer cover their fuel expenses. As a result, part of local short-distance mobility in Chai Nat had broken away.
Why the business no longer adds up for many
Motorbike taxis earned their income from many short trips, with limited margin per ride. When fuel became more expensive, the cost share per trip rose immediately.
The rider explained that, after deducting expenses, earnings often were no longer sufficient to keep the service running. This had led more and more drivers to withdraw from the market.
Adjustments: driving more slowly to save fuel
To reduce consumption, the remaining rider said he drove more slowly than before. In this way, he tried to get through the day using less fuel.
Such measures could help cut costs but did not replace stable framework conditions. For many motorbike taxi operators, saving alone apparently was no longer enough to remain profitable.
Fares rise by 20–30%
In addition, the rider raised his fares by about 20–30%, depending on the distance. Passengers were informed in advance about the new prices to create transparency.
Previously, a trip of up to five kilometres had cost about 20–30 baht. Now, prices started at 30–40 baht, depending on the route.
Customer reactions: mostly accepting
According to the rider, customers had largely accepted the higher prices. This meant at least a minimum level of service at the market could still be maintained.
The adjustment was intended to allow the rider to continue earning a living without overburdening passengers. At the same time, the situation highlighted how sensitive such services were to rising operating costs.
Your opinion
The report raised the question of whether local governments or the state should provide targeted support to small transport providers such as motorbike taxis when fuel prices rise sharply, in order to maintain basic mobility. It also asked whether higher fares were the only fair way to reflect real costs for these services.