US crude oil prices (WTI and Brent) rose on 27 August after the Trump administration rejected negotiations with Iran and confirmed additional sanctions. WTI traded at $83.53/bbl (+$1.30) and Brent at $89.70/bbl (+$1.86). Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and shipping disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz directly impact energy costs for Thai businesses and refineries. Thai SMEs relying on imports or energy-intensive operations face near-term margin pressure.