In Điện Biên, functional sectors, fuel suppliers, and transport enterprises have urgently implemented flexible solutions to stabilize and regulate the market, aiming to minimize these impacts as much as possible.

Flexible adaptation

While the government and relevant ministries have implemented fuel price stabilization measures, domestic prices remain high compared to previous periods. This volatility directly impacts various sectors, particularly passenger transport, where fuel accounts for 30% to 40% of operating costs depending on the vehicle type and conditions. For example, a representative of the former Thái Bình-Điện Biên bus route noted that the average diesel cost per trip has risen from VND 7.5 million to over VND 10 million.

Despite these challenges, transport businesses in the province are avoiding sudden fare hikes by reviewing costs, reducing management expenses, and optimizing vehicle operations. The average fare adjustment in the province has been approximately 17.4%, primarily driven by fuel factors while other costs remain stable. By March 16, seven fixed-route and bus units had declared fare increases averaging 17%, generally ranging from 14% to 19% depending on the specific route.

The province currently has nearly 80 fuel retail stations operated by 24 enterprises. To ensure market supply, Vũ Hồng Sơn, Director of the provincial Department of Industry and Trade, stated that the department has requested the Ministry of Industry and Trade to direct distributors to ensure an uninterrupted supply for the province. The department is also closely monitoring market developments to implement appropriate regulatory solutions within its authority.

Ensuring transparency and market Stability

As of the morning of March 19, 2026, retail fuel prices have remained stable following the most recent adjustment on March 12, 2026, with RON 95 priced at VND 26,080 per liter and Diesel 0.05S-II at VND 27,560 per liter. Hoàng Đình Đạo, the manager of Fuel Station No.3 under the Petrolimex Điện Biên, confirmed that the station is maintaining a steady supply for national security and public needs, with an inventory of 38 cubic meters of RON 95 and 52 cubic meters of diesel. However, experts predict that fuel prices may continue to fluctuate unpredictably due to international energy market conditions.

On March 17, the provincial Department of Construction issued a document to strengthen the management of transport fares amidst these rising costs. This move aims to ensure transparency, protect the rights of both residents and businesses, and maintain safe, smooth transport operations for local socio-economic development. The department requested that transport businesses tighten fuel consumption limits and adjust schedules to increase occupancy rates, thereby minimizing empty runs. Companies are also encouraged to seek auxiliary revenue from services like parcel delivery rather than relying solely on basic fare increases. This is seen as a flexible way to share the financial burden with the public.

Furthermore, any fare adjustments must be based on actual cost fluctuations supported by valid documents, and businesses are strictly prohibited from using market volatility to engage in uniform or excessive price hikes for profiteering. Fares must be reduced promptly when fuel prices drop. Nguyễn Hoài Nam, the Director of the provincial Bus Station Management Board, added that the board is reviewing terminal service fees and considering plans to waive, reduce, or delay fee collections to support struggling enterprises. Because fuel is an essential commodity, balancing the interests of businesses and residents through strict monitoring of supply and pricing is vital for maintaining local economic stability.