Ministry explains reasons for night-time adjustments to gasoline and diesel prices

Night-time price adjustments for gasoline and diesel are applied only in extraordinary cases to keep pace with global market movements and to curb speculation and hoarding, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade. In a press briefing on April 9, 2026, Nguyen Anh Tuan, Head of the Gasoline, Oil and Domestic Market Development Department, said night-time adjustments occur only in unusual circumstances and are not frequent.

Cause: global volatility and specific trigger thresholds

The ministry said the practice is linked to the need to monitor market developments under Government Resolution 55 amid sharp global price volatility. Accordingly, timely action is required when global price increases exceed 15% or decreases exceed 10%.

Nguyen Anh Tuan said operating at the end of the day helps regulators update the latest Platts Singapore price. Based on this, they determine a base price aligned with actual conditions, reducing market impact. The approach is also intended to avoid disruptions and limit speculation or hoarding while waiting for price increases.

Development: capturing end-of-day data and setting the adjustment plan

Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan added that night-time adjustments help regulators capture full end-of-day data to determine market trends and decide on an appropriate plan in line with developments.

Data and market context: Middle East escalation and domestic price cycles

The ministry pointed to the escalation of the Middle East conflict since late February as a major factor affecting global fuel supply. It said the scale and impact of the crisis surpass the oil shocks of the 1970s, disrupting economies and energy markets.

As a result, domestic energy markets have fluctuated sharply. Since late February, the domestic retail price of gasoline and diesel has undergone 15 adjustment cycles, including nine adjustments occurring around 22:00–24:00.

Impact and measures: securing supply and stabilizing prices

Beyond the flexible adjustment mechanism, the ministry said it has multiple measures to ensure supply and stabilize the market. Nguyen Anh Tuan said imports from the Middle East have had a certain impact, and shipments are still under way and being brought into Vietnam.

In March, enterprises increased imports by more than 3 million cubic meters. Combined with domestic stockpiles, the ministry said supply for April is basically secured.

The ministry also said companies are diversifying suppliers rather than relying solely on the Middle East, including increasing purchases of oil from Russia to serve refineries.

In addition, the ministry prepared operating scenarios aimed at ensuring supply, avoiding inflation, and preserving macro stability. It said two refineries will be maintained at the highest possible operating levels, while feedstock inputs will be adjusted to reduce dependence on the Middle East. Regulators also use tools such as the Fuel Price Stabilization Fund to moderate price swings in the short term, alongside tax reductions.

"Despite strong pressure, the coordinated implementation of these solutions helps ensure fuel supply and meet consumer demand," said Tuấn.