Thailand has halted electricity supply in five Myanmar border areas, citing the misuse of energy for illegal activities. This decision, announced by Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, marks a shift in the country’s energy policy towards its neighbor.
An Interrupted Energy Market
The affected areas include Mae Sai, Mae Sot, and the Three Pagodas Pass, regions where criminal networks operate online scam centers. Thailand had been exporting approximately 50 million baht worth of electricity per month to these locations, equivalent to $1.5 million. The sudden halt in these energy flows raises concerns about the continuity of power exchanges between the two countries.
Impact on Infrastructure and Contracts
Thailand’s electricity exports to Myanmar are part of a broader regional energy cooperation framework. This suspension could impact operators involved in cross-border grid distribution and maintenance. No contractual breach has been officially cited, with the primary justification being the misappropriation of electricity for illicit activities.
A Political and Economic Signal
This power supply cut coincides with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s visit to China, where the issue of online scam centers is on the agenda. Beijing, concerned about the involvement of its nationals in these operations, is closely monitoring developments. There is uncertainty about a potential impact on Sino-Thai economic relations, particularly in the tourism and trade sectors.
Perspectives on Energy Flows
While this measure targets specific locations, it could have broader implications for energy flows in Southeast Asia. Myanmar partly relies on energy imports to power certain infrastructures. This Thai decision highlights the complexity of energy, security, and geopolitical relations in the region.
