Feeling the effects of the energy crisis

About this episode

Four-day workweeks. Designated driving days. Fewer business trips. Across Southeast Asia, governments have been moving quickly to adopt measures that conserve fuel – highlighting the region’s exposure to the energy crisis caused by the near closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
 
In this episode, Sue-Ern Tan, Head of the IEA’s Regional Cooperation Centre in Singapore, explains why countries in Southeast Asia are among the hardest hit by current energy supply disruptions. She discusses how rising prices and fuel shortages are already affecting daily life – and the steps governments are taking to help shield consumers from the worst impacts.

Speakers

Sue-Ern Tan

Head of the IEA Regional Cooperation Centre

IEA

Sue Ern Tan, IEA

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