The Vietnamese Government recently issued Decree 72. This historic change officially reduces the Fuel Import Tax to 0%. The policy took effect on March 9, 2026. This is a timely response to complex tensions in the Middle East.

Global energy markets are facing high risks. Cutting taxes helps stabilize domestic prices. It also allows Vietnamese businesses to access more diverse supply sources. This policy is expected to last until April 30, 2026.

Items eligible for 0% Fuel Import Tax

Decree 72 covers most essential fuel items. The following groups benefit directly from the Fuel Import Tax cut:

• Motor Gasoline & Blendstocks: Tax dropped from 10% to 0%. This includes naphtha and reformate.
• Diesel & Jet Fuel: MFN rates fell from 7% to 0%. This is great news for the transport and aviation sectors.
• Petrochemical Feedstocks: Xylene, condensate, and p-xylene rates are now 0%.

Synchronized tax adjustments reduce financial pressure across the entire energy value chain.

The need for urgent action

Middle East tensions are driving crude oil prices up. The risk of blocking the Strait of Hormuz is high. If this happens, millions of oil barrels could be stranded daily.

Vietnam has 0% tax deals with ASEAN and Korea. However, when regional supply tightens, we must look elsewhere. The old Fuel Import Tax (MFN) was a major barrier. Removing it ensures an immediate flow of alternative supplies.

Strategies to leverage 0% Fuel Import Tax

This is a golden window for fuel and logistics firms to act through three core strategies. First, secure early orders before the incentive ends in late April 2026 by signing contracts now to lock in the 0% tax benefit. Second, diversify supply networks beyond ASEAN by looking for suppliers in the Middle East, Europe, or the US. 

Finally, gain a competitive edge as lower input costs allow for better pricing, helping you quickly capture market share and build brand trust.

The “Strategic Shield” concept

Decree 72 is more than just a document. It acts as a strategic shield. It protects the economy from external energy shocks.

When Fuel Import Tax is no longer a burden, companies can build reserves. Both national and corporate energy security are strengthened. This ensures stability even in the worst-case global scenarios.

Slashing the Fuel Import Tax to 0% is a bold and decisive move. It demonstrates the government’s agility in economic management. For businesses, this is the ultimate push to optimize profits and scale up.

Source: VnEconomy

09/03/2026