HCMC — Hanoi City authorities have ordered stricter actions against major fuel traders that restrict supplies, cut distributor discounts without justification, or halt sales without valid reasons.
The directive was issued by the Hanoi People’s Committee as global energy market volatility has caused concerns about potential disruptions to domestic fuel supply.
The city government tasked the Hanoi Department of Industry and Trade with boosting inspections and supervision of fuel trading activities. Traders and retailers must comply with regulations on fuel quality, price listing and selling at official prices.
Authorities were instructed to take firm action against those traders that hoard fuels, reduce discounts for retailers unreasonably, or suspend sales in ways that could trigger supply disruptions.
Ward and commune authorities were also told to work with market surveillance forces to monitor gas stations regularly. They must help manage traffic when crowds gather at gas stations and prevent illegal roadside fuel sales using small bottles or containers.
The city asked fuel importers, traders and retailers to ensure stable and uninterrupted supply across the distribution system. Businesses must also comply with regulations on measurement standards, fuel quality and operating hours.
Earlier, some fuel retailers had requested permission to reduce operating hours due to difficulties maintaining stable supply and staffing levels, according to the Hanoi City Department of Industry and Trade.
The department reported that shortages and temporary closures have mainly occurred at stations operated by fuel distributors, which depend on supplies from importers.
Nearly 70% of retail gas stations in Hanoi belong to importers’ distribution systems, while more than 30% are run by distributors or suppliers from other provinces and cities. Importers have pledged to ensure sufficient supply through the end of March.
