Dong Thap: Proactively Responding To Fuel Market Fluctuations

(DTO) Amidst strong fluctuations in the petroleum market, Dong Thap Province has been proactively implementing various solutions to promptly monitor the situation and stabilize the market.

Speaking at the press briefing for March 2026 on the morning of March 25, Mr. Dang Van Tuan, Deputy Director of the Dong Thap Provincial Department of Industry and Trade, stated that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is heavily impacting the global energy market, leading to volatility in prices and the supply of gasoline and oil. These developments not only directly affect production and business operations but also extend to various socio-economic sectors, including exports and raw material costs.

In this context, the Department of Industry and Trade has proactively deployed solutions to stay ahead of the situation. One of the earliest measures was the establishment of a hotline to receive public feedback. 

To date, the Department has received over 20 reports, primarily concerning sales suspensions, price adjustments, or restricted operating hours. Upon receiving these reports, Market Management forces were mobilized to conduct on-site inspections in coordination with local authorities. Results indicated that the majority of the public's reports were accurate.

The primary cause was identified as consumer anxiety over rising prices, leading to hoarding, which resulted in localized shortages at some stations or the necessity of sales quotas. 

In response, the Department of Industry and Trade promptly reminded units to ensure supply and maintain operations according to their registered hours.

Simultaneously, inspection and supervision efforts have been intensified. Petroleum stations are required to sign commitments to guarantee supply and prevent any disruption in sales. 

Regarding the risk of cross-border fuel smuggling due to international price disparities, the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Ministry of Public Security have directed localities—especially border provinces—to strengthen inspections and strictly handle violations.

In terms of ensuring fuel supply, there are currently two key fuel suppliers, 12 distributors and more than 1,000 fuel retail stations in Dong Thap Province, basically meeting the fuel demand of residents. The industry sector has required key suppliers and distributors to ensure supply for their agents. Inspections show that these units have maintained supply in accordance with Government regulations.

In the coming time, amid unpredictable global developments, the Government has assigned the Ministry of Industry and Trade to develop response scenarios corresponding to different levels and durations of conflicts. Based on this, the Department of Industry and Trade is also advising the Provincial People’s Committee to develop specific plans to proactively regulate supply and demand, reserves, inspections and communication efforts...

With the synchronous implementation of these solutions, authorities expect the fuel market in Dong Thap Province to remain under control and stable in the coming time.

By ANH THU – HA NAM
Translated by X.QUANG