Myanmar’s National Defence and Security Council has announced that private vehicles will be allowed on the roads on an odd-even basis starting March 7, 2026, in a bid to conserve fuel.

According to a public notice released on March 3, the measure comes amid global political tensions and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East that have disrupted fuel shipping routes, affecting fuel imports.

Under the new rules, privately owned vehicles with even-numbered license plates (e.g., 2A, 4A) may operate on even-numbered dates, while those with odd-numbered plates (e.g., 1A, 3A) may operate on odd-numbered dates. Electric vehicles (EVs) and electric motorcycles are exempt and may be used daily.

Public transportation buses, taxis, fuel transport vehicles, construction vehicles, cargo trucks, ambulances, hearses, and municipal garbage trucks are also exempt from the restriction.

Authorities have also warned fuel businesses and the public not to stockpile or resell fuel at inflated prices. The rules will remain in effect until further notice, and violations will be prosecuted under existing laws.