Thailand has limited domestic oil production and reserves, and imports make up a significant portion of the country’s oil consumption. Thailand holds large proven reserves of natural gas, and natural gas production has increased substantially over the last few years. However, the country still remains dependent on imports of natural gas to meet growing domestic demand for the fuel.

In September 2006, a military coup overthrew the government of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The change in leadership did not have any immediate impact on oil or natural gas production. During 2006, Thailand’s real gross domestic product (GDP) grew by an estimated 5.0 percent, right on trend with average 5-year growth levels.