Mr. Nguyễn Sỹ Thắng, Chairman of the Vietnam Gas Association, said that there are currently 80 gas trading companies nationwide, of which only about 60 have established brands, with tens of thousands of agents and small retailers across the country. This has led to a situation where retail gas prices for consumers are often determined by agents and shops.
However, from January 15, 2010, when Decree No. 107/2009/NĐ-CP on gas trading issued by the Government takes effect, wholesale gas traders will be required to publicly announce their selling prices and take responsibility for prices within their distribution systems.
In addition, wholesale gas traders will be responsible for ensuring adequate gas supply for their distribution networks, as well as meeting quality standards under current regulations. Any price adjustment, whether an increase or decrease, must be reported to the Department of Industry and Trade in the locality where the trader’s distribution system operates.
Mr. Thắng also added that the Gas Association and market management forces will regularly conduct inspections to detect violations, request explanations, and impose penalties.
For consumers, when discovering gas shops that fail to ensure quality, weight, compliance with safety regulations, pricing rules, or promotional policies (if any), they must report to wholesale gas traders, general agents, agents, or the competent authorities for timely prevention and handling.
(Thoi Bao Kinh Te Viet Nam 5/12)
