On September 20, 2026, global oil prices saw a notable decrease, with West Texas Intermediate (WTI) trading at $99.53 per barrel, down by $2.38 (2.34%), and Brent crude at $103.19 per barrel, down by $1.63 (1.56%). This marked the end of a two-week increase in oil prices, driven by positive signals regarding the potential easing of tensions between the United States and Iran, as well as reduced risks of supply disruptions in the Middle East.

Despite the drop in prices, the risk of supply issues remains unresolved. The market continues to be sensitive to developments in the Hormuz Strait and diesel supply, suggesting that price fluctuations could remain high in the near future.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the recent changes in global oil prices are influenced by several factors, including the uncertain prospects of ending the conflict between the U.S. and Iran, escalating tensions in the Middle East involving Houthi forces attacking Saudi oil facilities, and the Federal Reserve's interest rate hikes. The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, particularly targeting each other's energy infrastructure, also plays a significant role.

As of September 20, 2026, the retail prices for gasoline and oil in Vietnam are as follows:

• E5 RON92: capped at 25,139 VND/liter (up 1,395 VND/liter from the current maximum price), lower than E10 RON95-III by 497 VND/liter.
• E10 RON95-III: capped at 25,636 VND/liter (up 1,397 VND/liter from the current maximum price).
• Diesel 0.05S: capped at 29,945 VND/liter (up 1,460 VND/liter from the current maximum price).
• 180CST 3.5S fuel oil: capped at 19,196 VND/kg (up 1,039 VND/kg from the current maximum price).

Comparatively, the fuel prices in neighboring countries on September 17, 2026, were as follows: Thailand: 31,294 VND/liter (government-subsidized); Cambodia: 30,697 VND/liter (government-subsidized); Laos: 52,056 VND/liter; China: 33,719 VND/liter (government-controlled); Vietnam: 25,886 VND/liter. For oil, Thailand: 31,894 VND/liter (government-subsidized); Cambodia: 34,854 VND/liter; Laos: 44,184 VND/liter; China: 30,626 VND/liter (government-controlled); Vietnam: 29,945 VND/liter. Vietnam's fuel prices remain low compared to its neighboring countries.