The ministry is currently seeking feedback on a draft Government resolution to prolong the implementation of Decree No. 72/2026/ND-CP, issued on March 9, 2026.
According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the decree has delivered tangible results since its introduction, helping businesses diversify supply sources and mitigate the adverse impacts of global energy price fluctuations.
In the context of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East disrupting supplies from traditional markets such as South Korea and ASEAN countries, the zero percent tax policy has enabled enterprises to access alternative sources outside the region, contributing to the stability of domestic supply.
However, global conditions remain complex, with limited supply and rising fuel prices. Meanwhile, Decree 72/2026 is set to expire on April 30, 2026, creating challenges for businesses that must soon negotiate shipments for the April to June period, potentially affecting their medium- and long-term import and production plans.
According to the drafting agency, the proposed Government resolution aims to extend the policy in order to help stabilize the petroleum market and ensure national energy security amid ongoing global uncertainties.
The proposal also seeks to maintain macroeconomic stability and support economic growth, while ensuring compliance with legal authority, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
Under the draft resolution, a zero percent preferential import tax would continue to apply to three categories of fuel production inputs, replacing the current most-favored-nation rate of 5 percent under the preferential import tariff schedule issued with Decree No. 26/2023.
Specifically, the applicable categories include HS code 2710.19.20 (partly refined oils), 2710.19.89 (other medium oils and preparations), and 2711.19.00 (other products).
The resolution proposes extending the policy until June 30, 2026, with effect from the date of signing.
It is estimated that the extension would reduce state budget revenue by approximately VND997 billion (US$40.8 million) over the two-month period. In total, the combined impact of Decree 72/2026 and the proposed extension would amount to a revenue reduction of around VND2.021 trillion (US$82.9 million).
Nguyen Le
