Vietnam launches nationwide E10 ethanol fuel, early uptake shows minimal issues

Vietnam began selling E10 ethanol‑blended gasoline across the country on 1 June 2026, marking a major step in its green‑energy transition. In the first four days of the rollout, 141.5 million litres of E10 were sold out of a total of 151 million litres of gasoline, and authorities reported no serious consumer complaints.

Officials say the fuel, which contains about 10 % ethanol derived from renewable crops such as cassava, corn and sugarcane, can cut CO₂ emissions by roughly 2.3–2.5 kg per litre, potentially reducing millions of tonnes of emissions annually. The move also aims to lower Vietnam’s reliance on imported fossil fuels, which currently supply about 70 % of demand.

Technical assessments indicate that most vehicles manufactured after 2000 are compatible with E10, while older cars may experience issues like fuel‑system clogging, rubber seal degradation, or water‑related corrosion. Experts advise owners of older vehicles to inspect fuel lines and use reputable stations. Some drivers noted a slight increase in fuel consumption, but the effect is considered minor.

Overall, the early phase of the E10 programme has proceeded smoothly, with regulatory bodies monitoring quality and planning spot inspections to ensure continued safety and performance.