SURIN, THAILAND – Rising oil prices put heavy pressure on water producers in Surin province, slashing revenues and triggering plans to raise bottled water prices.
Oil costs squeeze water producers
Continuously rising oil prices had a significant impact on water producers in the Surin region. Many businesses felt compelled to increase their prices to cover higher costs.
One example was the Thanathip water plant. Its owner, Mr. Paisarn, reported that monthly income had fallen from more than 100,000 Baht to only 50,000 to 60,000 Baht.
Planned price hike for bottled water
Initially, the price of a small bottle of water had been 10 Baht, but it was gradually raised to 12 Baht. Due to the current situation, Mr. Paisarn planned to increase the price to 15 Baht.
Rising transport costs caused by higher oil prices were no longer bearable for many small businesses. For them, the additional burden threatened their ability to continue operating.
Call for government support
Mr. Paisarn appealed to the government to take measures to control rising oil prices. He stressed that support for small businesses and the local population was urgently needed.
Higher living costs could, in the long term, endanger the economic stability of the region. Local households and enterprises were already feeling the strain.
Impact on the border region
The increase in oil prices affected not only water producers but also many other businesses in the border region between Thailand and Cambodia. These companies faced unavoidable cost increases across their operations.
The situation could lead to a decline in economic activity in the region. This, in turn, might negatively affect the quality of life for local residents.