Southeast Asia is becoming a major player in aviation decarbonization. The region accounts for nearly 8% of global jet fuel demand, making it vital to the global clean-energy transition. Experts estimate that Southeast Asia Aviation Fuel Standard could produce up to 52.9 million US barrels of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) each year by 2050, using its rich agricultural and waste resources.
Countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines are leading this effort. Each is building its own policy roadmap to reduce aviation emissions and meet international frameworks such as ICAO’s CORSIA.
Thailand Takes the Lead in Southeast Asia Aviation Fuel Standard
Thailand is set to release its first-ever SAF standard in October 2025. This standard will take effect in January 2026, requiring airlines to use a minimum 1% SAF blend. That percentage will gradually increase to 8% by 2036, supporting Thailand’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.
The move positions Thailand as a leader in the region's aviation fuel standard movement. The nation is creating a framework that aligns with both regional ambition and global aviation sustainability goals.
Read Also: SEA Carbon Credit Markets: Building the Foundation for a Low-Carbon Future
Growing Local Capacity to Meet Global Targets
Thailand’s biofuel industry is not starting from scratch. Major players are already investing heavily in SAF production capacity.
- Bangchak Corporation operates a dedicated 100% neat SAF plant producing about 1 million liters per day.
- PTT Global Chemical converts used cooking oil into SAF, with plans to scale up to 24 million liters annually.
These developments feed directly into the government’s Alternative Energy Development Plan (AEDP 2024), which targets 675 million liters of SAF consumption by 2037. That goal reflects serious commitment from both the public and private sectors.
Strong Policy Backing and Industry Collaboration
The National Energy Plan 2024 gives Thailand a clear roadmap for SAF adoption. It begins with a 1% blending target in 2026 and increases gradually under strict greenhouse gas reduction guidelines.
Thailand’s draft standards follow the ASTM D7566 international specifications, ensuring SAF produced domestically meets global safety, compatibility, and performance requirements.
Collaboration between airlines such as Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways and producers like PTT Global Chemical shows how Thailand’s aviation and energy industries are working hand in hand. Their shared goal: develop, test, and commercialize SAF that meets both domestic and international aviation needs.
Read Also: Southeast Asia Green Shipping: Ports Steering Toward a Sustainable Future
Southeast Asia Aviation Fuel Standard: Regional and Global Significance
Thailand’s SAF standard has meaning beyond its borders. It signals that Southeast Asia is ready to build an integrated, sustainable energy network. By setting clear rules and measurable goals, Thailand could become the region’s benchmark for clean aviation fuels.
With 8% of the world’s jet fuel demand centered in Southeast Asia, this standard sends a strong message: the region isn’t waiting for others to lead. It’s ready to build its own path toward low-carbon aviation.
Future Outlook and Long-Term Impact on Southeast Asia Aviation Fuel Standard
Thailand’s early action could inspire similar frameworks across neighboring countries. As SAF production scales and technology improves, costs will drop and adoption will accelerate. If targets stay on track, Thailand will not only meet its domestic needs but could also become a key SAF exporter within ASEAN.
The Southeast Asia Aviation Fuel Standard marks more than a policy milestone. It’s a turning point in how the region views sustainability, innovation, and cooperation. To explore how global expertise can support energy transition strategies, regulatory planning, or sustainable fuel investment, contact Market Research Southeast Asia, a trusted international advisor in aviation, energy, and sustainability transformation.
