Vietnam to mandate 5% ethanol blends by January 2018

Vietnam announced the phase out of RON 92 petrol starting 1 January 2018. RON 92 petrol will be available in the market until 31 December 2017. Beginning 1 January 2018, however, only E5 biofuel, a blend of 95% RON 92 petrol and 5% ethanol, and a higher grade of pure petrol, RON 95, will be made available in the market.

“The ban of RON 92 grade is in line with the government’s effort to boost sales and consumption of environment-friendly E5. The shift will also contribute to ensuring energy security, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and implementing the commitment made by the Vietnamese Government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, among others,” the government announced.

Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung also directed the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) to supervise petrol wholesalers to ensure a stable supply of biofuel. The decision is part of Vietnam’s roadmap to shift to biofuel use.

The Ministry of Finance was also advised “to control” the price of biofuel, to avoid price increases while the government develops its policies on ethanol production.