Myanmar’s National Defence and Security Council (NDSC) has announced temporary nationwide fuel conservation measures in response to global fuel supply disruptions. The move follows ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have affected key maritime routes used by oil tankers and raised concerns over domestic fuel availability.

Even–Odd Driving System from 7 March 2026

Effective 7 March 2026, private vehicle use across Myanmar will be restricted under an even–odd license plate system:

• Vehicles with license plates starting with an even number may operate only on even-numbered calendar days.
• Vehicles with plates starting with an odd number may operate only on odd-numbered days.

Electric vehicles (EVs) and electric motorcycles are fully exempt and may operate daily, signalling a policy preference for alternative energy transport.

Exempt Vehicles

The following categories are not subject to the alternating system and may continue operating daily:

• Public transport buses and taxis
• Fuel transport vehicles
• Construction and cargo trucks
• Ambulances and hearses
• Municipal garbage trucks

These exemptions reflect the government’s intention to maintain essential public services and economic activity.

Following the initial announcement, the NDSC issued a supplementary public notice on 4 March 2026 expanding the categories of vehicles permitted to operate daily. These additionally exempt vehicles are required to be able to show supporting documents or recommendations issued by the relevant departments confirming that the vehicle is being used solely for the permitted purposes. It is a strict requirement that these vehicles can only undertake essential trips and that vehicle operations are kept to a minimum. The additional exempt vehicles include:

• Vehicles transporting staff of factories, industrial facilities, and government departments
• Vehicles engaged in goods distribution
• Vehicles used for operational purposes of factories, industries, and government departments
• School buses and vans

It remains unclear what kind of supporting documents are required to demonstrate eligibility for falling under such an exempt category or what the process is to obtain a recommendation from a government department.

Prohibition on Fuel Hoarding and Resale

The notice also strictly prohibits purchasing fuel for hoarding or resale at inflated prices, underscoring efforts to prevent speculation and black-market activity during the supply disruption. The measures will remain in force until further notice.

Legal Enforcement: Unclear but Potentially Severe

The NDSC notice states that violations will be “taken action against under existing laws,” but does not specify the applicable legal provisions.

In practice, enforcement could potentially rely on:

• Section 188 of the Myanmar Penal Code, which criminalises disobedience of an order issued by a lawfully empowered public servant; and/or
• The Essential Supplies and Services Law, under which fuel is treated as an essential commodity. Violations of orders issued under this law may result in six months to three years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to MMK 500,000, or both.

However, as neither law is expressly referenced in the notice, the precise legal basis and penalties remain unclear.

Practical Implications for Businesses

Businesses with vehicle fleets, logistics operations, or fuel-intensive activities should promptly review their transport scheduling, fleet deployment, and fuel management practices to ensure compliance. Further guidance or implementing regulations may be issued, and close monitoring of official announcements is advisable.

• Myanmar
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• Vehicles
• Energy