The Vietnam Gas Association has detected a number of local gas traders who have imported dimethyl ether (DME), to dilute gas.
Some traders have imported hundreds of tonnes of DME for gas adulteration. The chemical is often used as the solvent for mosquito and paint sprayers. A tonne of DME is around USD100 cheaper than gas.

The association has recently found DME mixed into gas at the rate of 10%-20%, bringing traders profits of VND30,000-60,000 (USD1.42-2.85) per 12kg canister.

Many gas refilling stations also use DME to put into gas canisters and sell them at just VND250,000 (USD11.9) per 12-kg canister. DME is very dangerous to users because it can damage the canister after a long time of use, causing leakages and fires. DME has lower pressure and heat than real gas, leading to inefficient use for customers.

The association has banned its members from mixing DME with gas and is also urging agencies to deal with the violation to protect customers.

Gas fraud

Gas prices in the world market has increased by USD30 per tonne, and from early February this year, retail prices of gas in the domestic market will be raised. A 12-kg canister will cost more than VND400,000 (USD19.04).

The price hike has sparked further fraud. With sophisticated tricks, traders can earn a profit of VND100,000 per a 12-kg canister. Under-filled gas canisters are becoming increasingly common.

Association Vice Chairman Le Thi Anh Man said, a large number of gas refilling stations had recently been set up in Dong Nai, Binh Duong, Ba Ria-Vung Tau and Long An provinces. They serve different customers, with the majority being illegal gas traders who use canister shells from big petroleum firms and fake quality stamps. Each canister can lack several kilos of gas, depending on demand.

The traders often launch massive promotion activities such as offering gifts to attract customers. Many households are lured by the trick and buy under weight canisters.

NLD/Dtnews