Hanoi: Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade called on companies to adopt flexible work arrangements, including remote work, to limit travel and transportation during the current fuel shortage.

The Southeast Asian nation has been among the countries hardest hit by supply disruptions, largely due to its heavy reliance on energy imports from the Middle East. According to government officials, the conflict involving Iran has significantly affected fuel availability and triggered a sharp rise in prices across the country.

Data from Vietnam’s largest fuel trader, Petrolimex, showed that since the end of last month gasoline prices have surged by 32 per cent, diesel by 56 per cent, and kerosene by as much as 80 per cent.

The sudden spike has also led to visible pressure on fuel distribution, with long lines of cars and motorbikes reported at petrol stations in the capital city, Hanoi, on Tuesday.

Authorities have urged businesses and individuals not to hoard or speculate on fuel supplies, warning that such actions could worsen the shortage.

In an effort to stabilise the situation, Prime Minister Pham Minh Minh on Monday held phone calls with his counterparts in Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates to secure additional supplies of fuel and crude oil.

Meanwhile, Vietnam has also taken immediate economic measures to ease the pressure on consumers and industries. The government announced the removal of import tariffs on fuel, a temporary step that will remain in effect until the end of April.