Vietnam urges remote work as Iran war disrupts fuel supplies

Hanoi, March 10 – Vietnam has urged businesses to encourage employees to work from home in order to conserve fuel as disruptions and price spikes linked to the war involving Iran strain energy supplies, the government said on Tuesday.

The appeal was issued by the Ministry of Industry and Trade Vietnam, which cited a report highlighting the country’s vulnerability to supply shocks because of its heavy reliance on imported energy from the Middle East.

The ministry said companies should “encourage work-from-home when possible to reduce the need for travel and transportation,” according to a government statement.

Energy prices have risen sharply across Vietnam since the conflict escalated at the end of last month. Data from fuel trader Petrolimex showed gasoline prices have climbed 32%, while diesel has risen 56% and kerosene 80%.

The surge has prompted visible shortages in some areas. Long lines of cars and motorbikes were seen queuing at petrol stations in the capital, Hanoi, on Tuesday.

Authorities also urged businesses and consumers not to hoard or speculate on fuel supplies as the government works to stabilise the market.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Minh held calls on Monday with leaders in Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates to secure additional supplies of crude oil and refined fuels.

Vietnam also decided on Monday to remove import tariffs on fuel products until the end of April in an effort to ease price pressures and ensure adequate supply for businesses and households.