Petrolimex to replace mineral petrol with biofuel ahead of schedule

The Vietnam National Petroleum Group (Petrolimex) is accelerating efforts to expand the rollout of E10RON95 biofuel nationwide, aiming to fully replace mineral pertrol ahead of schedule.

The group plans to scale up the distribution of E10RON95 as early as April, following encouraging results from its pilot programme. Current consumption has reached an average of 95 cu.m per day, up around 40% compared to the start of the trial phase launched on August 1, 2025. 

Petrolimex has piloted the biofuel at 60 petrol stations in Ho Chi Minh City and central Quang Ngai province. To date, no customer complaints regarding fuel quality have been recorded, reflecting growing consumer confidence in the product, it said. 

Following the issuance of Circular No. 50/2025/TT-BCT by the Ministry of Industry and Trade last November, which outlines the roadmap for blending biofuels with traditional fuels and targets the complete replacement nationwide starting June 1 this year, Petrolimex has upgraded storage facilities and blending systems, secured ethanol supply sources, and optimised logistics and base fuel planning. 

Petrolimex to replace mineral petrol with biofuel ahead of schedule -0
A filling station of Petrolimex in Hanoi. (Photo: VNA)

The transition comes amid global supply uncertainties, including disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East. Petrolimex estimates that replacing the entire mineral petrol with E10RON95 could cut its monthly mineral fuel volume by nearly 10%, equivalent to 35,000–40,000 cu.m. 

However, challenges remain. The firm requires 45,000–50,000 cu.m of ethanol per month for producing the biofuel while domestic production can only meet part of the demand. 

Since early March, Petrolimex has been negotiating both short- and long-term import contracts with partners in the US, the Republic of Korea, and Singapore to secure sufficient supply though costs may rise due to global transport and fuel price hikes. 

To promote wider adoption, it has proposed policy support, including environmental tax reductions, clearer fuel standards and strict quality control measures to ensure consumer confidence in the lower-emission fuel.

VNA

Other News

Private economic sector poised for breakthrough growth

Private economic sector poised for breakthrough growth

More than a year after the Politburo's Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW on private sector development came into effect, expectations now extend beyond increasing the number of enterprises. The goal is to build a stronger business community with greater resilience, larger ambitions and the capacity to compete in global supply chains.

Vietnam remains ASEAN growth leader in 2026 despite global headwinds: WB

Vietnam remains ASEAN growth leader in 2026 despite global headwinds: WB

Vietnam is expected to remain one of ASEAN’s fastest-growing economies in 2026, supported by resilient exports, strong investment inflows and an ambitious reform agenda, despite mounting global uncertainties, according to the World Bank’s latest Vietnam Economic Update released on May 15.

Ministry establishes monitoring framework for carbon market

Ministry establishes monitoring framework for carbon market

Under a new circular, the exchange of greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits is conducted on the domestic carbon credit exchange through the carbon trading system, which is interconnected with the national registration system.

Biofuel ready for nationwide rollout

Biofuel ready for nationwide rollout

For biofuels, particularly E10, to develop successfully, stronger and more coordinated policies are needed, especially pricing mechanisms capable of creating a sufficiently attractive gap between E10 and mineral-based petrol, an expert has said.

Vietnamese farm produce promoted at African investment, trade forum

Vietnamese farm produce promoted at African investment, trade forum

The 12th Africa Forum for Investment & Commerce (AFIC 12) opened in Algiers, the capital of Algeria, on May 9, drawing around 2,000 participants, including officials, economists, businesses, financial and development organizagtions from 43 African countries and international partners, including Vietnam.

Int'l medical, pharmaceutical expo opens in Hanoi

Int'l medical, pharmaceutical expo opens in Hanoi

The exhibition, which runs until May 9 at the Hanoi International Centre for Exhibition, showcases advanced products and technologies across a range of fields, including pharmaceuticals, drug manufacturing machinery and equipment, medical devices, hospital and clinic services and dental equipment.

Mega projects to transform Ho Chi Minh City urban landscape

Mega projects to transform Ho Chi Minh City urban landscape

Leading the charge in this massive building spree is the new central city square in the core of the Thu Thiem new urban area. Spanning more than 20 ha, it’s the crown jewel of the Central Square and new administrative center complex.

Vietnam establishes itself as one of region’s most dynamic manufacturing and supply bases

Vietnam establishes itself as one of region’s most dynamic manufacturing and supply bases

The country’s stable political and economic environment provides a critical foundation for long-term sourcing strategies. At the same time, Vietnam has demonstrated a strong ability to scale up manufacturing, supported by a continuously expanding industrial base capable of meeting both high-volume demand and increasingly complex technical and quality requirements.

Vietnamese pomelos gain broader access to Australian market

Vietnamese pomelos gain broader access to Australian market

The update by Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to its Biosecurity Import Conditions system (BICON) on April 10, officially setting out import conditions for Vietnamese pomelos, is regarded as a major milestone in market access efforts.

Vietnam's industry spearheads transition to circular economy

Vietnam's industry spearheads transition to circular economy

The circular economy is no longer just a policy choice. It has become an inevitable trend for delivering sustainable and green growth, sharpening competitiveness at home and abroad, and meeting Vietnam’s net-zero emissions target by 2050. It is now a prerequisite to sustain long-term economic expansion, particularly in industrial production and supporting industries.

Nearly 100 tonnes of Vietnamese fruits, vegetables airlifted to UAE

Nearly 100 tonnes of Vietnamese fruits, vegetables airlifted to UAE

Vietnamese fresh produce and processed foods are increasingly recognised for their quality, with items such as cashew nuts, coffee and spices gaining popularity among Middle East consumers. In 2025, Vietnam’s farm produce exports to the UAE exceeded 445 million USD, up nearly 24% year-on-year.