They were also there to confirm interest in co-investing in gas-exploration blocks A1 and A3, after Daewoo International offered to sell part of its 60-per-cent stake in the concession.

"It's still uncertain whether PTTEP will win the bid for the stake," said PTT vice president Chitrapongse Kwangsukstith, adding that the blocks' reserves of natural gas were as high as 4 trillion to 5 trillion cubic feet per day and had attracted exploration companies from several countries.

In addition, the Burmese government is considering whether it should sell its natural gas via pipeline or as liquefied natural gas (LNG). It expects to decide on the matter early next year.

Chitrapongse said the natural gas from the JDA area's A18 field, lying astride the overlap between Thailand and Malaysia, would supply about 200 million cubic feet a day into the system in the first stage next April and another 200 million cubic feet in the second stage in February 2008.

He added that the B17 field, located next to A18, was expected to supply 200 million cubic feet into the system in October 2009. Burma is in the process of exploring the M7 and M9 fields.

Moreover, PTT negotiating with Chevron to purchase more natural gas from the Erawan field - a total of 330 million cubic feet a day in 2010. Including natural gas from the Bongkot field, this would mean an additional natural-gas supply of 300 million cubic feet a day in 2011. These supplies will serve the industry and transport sectors.

Chitrapongse said natural gas for vehicles (NGV) would increase from 10 million cubic feet a day now to 20 million in 2006 and 300 million in 2011.

Moreover, PTT has recently joined hands with Thanachart Bank to launch cheap loans for vehicle owners who want to switch to NGV-powered engines. Loans with instalment payments for as long as 36 months will offer zero interest if vehicle owners apply before next March.

PTT expects 25,000 car owners to apply for the loans.