Bio petrol, an environmentally friendly product, will be sold in five cities across the country, including Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Vung Tau, Hai Phong and Hai Duong, starting from August.

In an announcement made on July 29 in Ho Chi Minh City , the Vietnam National Oil and Gas Group (PetroVietnam) said that E5 bio gasoline will first be sold at 20 petrol stations in the five cities.

The group said it would then open three more stations in Da Nang , three in Hue and five in Can Tho. From 2012, E5 bio gasoline will be sold nationwide.

Bio petrol is a mixture of 95 percent of the conventional non-lead gasoline and 5 percent of ethanol. Tests showed that bio petrol E5 has a higher octane rating than other conventional gasolines, which allows fuel economy, better engine protection and environmental protection.

The government has identified bio fuel industry as a pivotal industry to ensure energy security, reduce dependence on the fossil fuels and protect the environment.

The introduction of E5 to the market is part of the government’s master biofuel development plan until 2015 and a vision towards 2025.

PetroVietnam said the new gasoline will help better protect the environment and promote economic development in rural areas.