Reporters from Gia Lai Newspaper and Radio & Television spoke with Mr. Nguyễn Đình Kha, Deputy Director of the Department of Industry and Trade, about preparations for the launch of E10 RON 95-III biofuel and public concerns surrounding fuel quality, safety, and supply.
* How has the province prepared for the simultaneous rollout of E10 biofuel sales at petrol retail outlets from June 1 to ensure stable supply and meet market demand?
Deputy Director of the Department of Industry and Trade NGUYỄN ĐÌNH KHA. Photo: NVCC
- In line with directives from the Government, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and the Provincial People’s Committee on the transition roadmap for E10 biofuel, the Department of Industry and Trade has implemented a range of measures to ensure a smooth rollout, avoid market disruptions, and fully meet consumer demand.
The province currently consumes around 2,000-2,200 cubic metres of fuel per day through a distribution network that includes 10 key traders, 11 distributors, and 733 petrol retail outlets.
Following the announcement of the policy, the Department worked with major fuel companies and distributors to develop supply plans aimed at ensuring adequate E10 fuel availability and preventing shortages or interruptions during the transition period.
Businesses have also been instructed to inspect and upgrade storage tanks, fuel pumps, and pipelines to ensure compliance with E10 technical requirements.
At the same time, the Department has strengthened inspections and monitoring of fuel trading activities to quickly identify and address violations related to product quality, origin, and price listings.
Residents refueling with E10 petrol at a station in Quy Nhơn Ward. Photo: Hải Yến
* Many consumers remain concerned about the quality and safety of E10 petrol. What are the advantages and safety assurances associated with this fuel?
- According to Mr. Kha, such concerns are understandable whenever a new fuel type is introduced. However, E10 petrol has already been used in many countries for years and is considered safe for vehicle engines when meeting technical standards.
Vietnam previously introduced E5 biofuel, allowing consumers to gradually become familiar with biofuel use. Although E10 contains a higher ethanol ratio, it still complies with technical standards and is compatible with many existing engine types.
Mr. Kha said consumers can feel reassured when using E10 petrol because it is environmentally friendly and helps reduce harmful emissions, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. He described the adoption of E10 as part of Vietnam’s broader transition toward green energy.
Regulatory agencies will continue strengthening inspections and oversight throughout the import, blending, and distribution process to ensure fuel quality before products reach the market.
* What benefits could the implementation of E10 petrol bring to the province’s green and sustainable development goals?
- Mr. Kha said the development and use of biofuels are increasingly important amid global challenges related to energy security and environmental protection.
He noted that wider use of E10 petrol could help gradually reduce dependence on imported petroleum and improve the country’s energy supply autonomy.
For the province, the rollout of E10 also creates opportunities to develop biofuel raw material supply chains for ethanol production. This could help increase agricultural product value, create jobs, and support local economic growth in a greener and more sustainable direction.
Environmental benefits include lower harmful emissions, reduced air pollution, and cuts in greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with the province’s green growth strategy and Vietnam’s net-zero emissions commitments.
Mr. Kha said the transition to E10 petrol represents more than a simple fuel change, describing it as part of a broader shift toward a sustainable and environmentally friendly development model.
“With comprehensive preparation by regulatory agencies, businesses, and support from the public, the province expects to successfully implement this roadmap and contribute to building a modern, green economy alongside the rest of the country,” he said.
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