Gas traders in Ho Chi Minh City have decided to raise the retail price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) despite a falling price trend of gas import tax, local media reported.
A canister containing 12 kg of gas is escalated VND2,000-3,000 to VND190,000-192,000, depending on suppliers. In early this month, the price discounted VND2,000-3,000 per 12-kg canister.
From September 19, Mobil Unique, PV Gas, Vinagas lifted VND2,000 per 12-kg canister while VT-gas raised VND3,000 to VND188,000 per canister of the same size.
The price hike is attributed to current scarce gas supply, said Pham Dinh Duc, PV Gas deputy general director.
From September 1, Thailand, one of major gas suppliers in Vietnam, has suspended export, reducing Vietnam’s imported gas quantity by 20,000 ton per month, Duc added.
Thus, Vietnamese gas importers have to seek suppliers in more distant countries. “Farther distance means the more transport fee,” a gas trader said.
The global oil price for current delivery has witnessed a remarkable hike, rocketing over US$81 per barrel September 18, he said.
According to the official, PV Gas’s Dinh Co gas processing plant in Ba Ria Vung Tau will standstill in around 20 days in early October for maintenance, narrowing the country’s gas supply.
Vietnam now has around 100 gas trading companies, including 10 big firms responsible for importing and distributing LPG in the local market.
Currently, foreign-led joint venture companies hold over 50 per cent of the market. They usually adjust selling price monthly.
Vietnam is estimated to use up nearly one million metric tons annually in coming years. In 2006, the country consumed around 800,000 tons with about 60 per cent being imported. US$1=VND16,200. (Pioneer, Young People)
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