The military junta has imposed additional restrictions on petrol stations, citing efforts to prevent fuel shortages in the country due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
Starting from March 12, a system requiring barcode scanning for vehicles and QR code issuance for motorcycles has been introduced. Under this system, purchase limits are set based on engine capacity, allowing buyers to purchase petrol once per week or up to twice in divided amounts. The junta announced on March 22 that this system will be fully implemented in the coming week.
However, a Mawlamyine resident working in the transport service sector said the barcode and QR code systems have not yet been implemented in Mon State.
“We have not seen this system here yet. I heard it is already in place in Yangon. We are still operating transport services, but without petrol, we cannot travel. Petrol stations sell fuel, but sometimes they close after selling limited amounts. There is still a shortage, and people have to queue and push to buy petrol,” he said.
Currently in Mawlamyine, petrol is being sold in limited amounts—around 5,000 kyat worth for motorcycles, 10,000 kyat for three-wheelers, and 50,000 kyat for cars, he added.
In an effort to reduce petrol consumption, the junta also announced on March 22 that government employees must work from home every Wednesday starting from March 25, 2026. Private businesses have been similarly encouraged to adopt work-from-home arrangements where possible.
According to the junta, Myanmar currently has petrol reserves sufficient for 50 days and is continuing to import fuel through existing and alternative routes.
Prior to these new measures, the junta had already introduced an odd-even vehicle usage system and restrictions on petrol purchases.
