Vietnam Taps Fuel Fund to Steady Prices Amid Risks of Shortages

Vietnam moved to cushion consumers from a sharp jump in fuel costs as the Middle East conflict stoked growing concerns over global energy supplies.

The government began disbursing money from its fuel price stabilization fund from midnight Tuesday, using as much as 5,000 dong ($0.20) per liter to soften retail price increases, according to a statement on its website. As a result, the price of RON-95 gasoline rose 7.66%, while diesel increased 1.58% and kerosene fell 7.71%, respectively.