As global oil markets tighten and supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz face disruption, countries across South and Southeast Asia are rolling out emergency measures to manage fuel shortages and rising prices. For travelers to the region, this means navigating destinations where transport, energy use, and even daily routines are being recalibrated. Visitors may notice quieter business districts during weekdays, reduced staffing across hospitality spaces, and a growing emphasis on public transport over private vehicles. Intercity travel, especially to remote regions, could be less predictable due to fuel constraints. In some places, air conditioning is being limited, and energy-intensive services may be scaled back. Intermittent power outages are also possible in a few destinations, making it essential to plan ahead. Here’s what to know before you go.
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South Korea
South Korea has launched a nationwide energy-saving campaign. A key measure is the stricter enforcement of an odd-even vehicle restriction system for public-sector cars, based on license plate numbers. While private vehicles are not yet bound by the rule, authorities have urged voluntary compliance and may tighten restrictions if the crisis escalates. This rule does not apply to compact cars/eco-friendly vehicles, vehicles used by persons with disabilities (including those carrying disabled passengers), and vehicles carrying pregnant women or infants. Public institutions are also being asked to stagger working hours to reduce peak transport demand, while a broader set of guidelines encourages residents to rely on public transport, limit electricity use, and shift energy-intensive activities to off-peak periods.
Philippines
In the Philippines, the government has declared a national energy emergency as soaring oil prices strain a system heavily dependent on Middle Eastern imports. Fuel reserves remain limited, spanning just a few weeks across gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. Government offices have shifted to four-day workweeks, while remote work and carpooling are being encouraged nationwide. Financial assistance is being distributed to transport workers most affected by rising fuel costs, particularly jeepney and tricycle drivers.
Vietnam
Authorities in Vietnam are pushing for behavioral changes to curb fuel consumption. Remote work for non-essential sectors has been strongly encouraged, alongside calls to limit private vehicle use and adopt alternatives such as cycling, carpooling, and public transport. Additionally, as of April 1, 2026, Vietnam’s national airliner Vietnam Airlines will cut 23 domestic flights per week due to severe supply disruptions. Other Vietnamese airlines are preparing to implement fuel surcharges on international routes from early April.
Thailand
In Thailand, authorities are balancing price controls with supply concerns. A temporary cap on diesel prices has been implemented, alongside requirements for fuel companies to increase reserves. However, this has triggered bouts of panic buying and longer queues at fuel stations. Energy-saving measures extend into daily life: government offices have raised air-conditioning temperature thresholds, and officials have suggested lighter dress codes to reduce the demand for AC. New oil import agreements have been signed to diversify supply, but price increases are still filtering through.
Laos
Fuel shortages in Laos have become acute, with a significant share of petrol stations temporarily shutting due to depleted supplies. As the country relies heavily on imports routed through neighboring markets, disruptions have had an outsized impact. The government has responded by scaling back in-person schooling to three days a week to conserve fuel.
Myanmar
Myanmar’s junta has introduced an alternate-day driving system for private vehicles, mirroring energy conservation strategies seen elsewhere in the region. This comes as the country grapples with compounded economic challenges and fuel scarcity. Enforcement measures include fines for non-compliance.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has introduced some of the most stringent measures in the region. Public institutions, schools, and universities now operate on a four-day week, with Wednesdays designated as a holiday to conserve fuel. Essential services remain operational. Fuel access is being tightly controlled through a National Fuel Pass system, which caps how much individuals can purchase.
Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, authorities are taking a preventative approach, introducing planned power cuts. This is meant to ease pressure on fuel consumption and electricity demand.
This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller India
