Abstract:
This thesis aims to study the development and pattern of the petroleum industry in Thailand from the end of World War II until the establishment of the Petroleum Authority of Thailand (AD 1946-1978) in relations to the transformation of the economy, politics, and transportation. After the end of World War II in 1946 the petroleum trade and industry in Thailand had significantly expanded. Petroleum had become the main source of fuel in the country as a result of the transformation of the economic structure and transportation, especially the development of roads and domestic industries supported by the United States of America and international economic organizations since 1947. The growth of the petroleum sector during the period that this thesis focuses on reflects the governments attempt to participate and take control of the petroleum trade and industry. The relationship between private sector and the government was cooperative and complicated at the same time. Also, there was a lot of shifting in the relationship between the stakeholders and investors. The First Oil Crisis (1973-1975) had significant impact on Thai economy and society. It also generated conflicts on oil price between the private and public oil companies. Hence, there was a strong attempt to make the private sector and investors less dominant, and increase governments role in the petroleum industry, which finally gave rise to the establishment of Petroleum Authority of Thailand in 1978.