Vietnam confronts limited E5 fuel supply and storage concerns for ethanol‑blended gasoline

Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade reports that E10 gasoline, containing 10% ethanol, does not separate into water phases for at least three months under controlled storage, but advises users not to keep the fuel for extended periods and to keep containers sealed to avoid moisture ingress.

At the same time, drivers of older motorcycles and equipment are struggling to find E5 gasoline, which many older models require. Consumers in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and elsewhere report only a handful of stations still dispensing E5, often far from residential areas, prompting them to seek addresses online or travel long distances. Fuel retailers are prioritising E10 supply because demand for E5 is low, leading to limited availability for vehicles that are not compatible with higher ethanol blends.