Ho Chi Minh City metro ridership rises nearly 25% after fuel price increases

The 19.7km line, which runs from a central station near Ben Thanh Market past Mien Dong (Eastern) Coach Station to the Suoi Tien Coach Station terminal in the eastern part of the city, recorded a 24.7-percent rise in ridership from Monday to Thursday compared with the period from March 2 to March 5.

Authorities said some residents in Ho Chi Minh City had begun shifting from private vehicles to public transport as gasoline and diesel prices rose.

Vietnam has adjusted fuel prices five times since March 5, including four increases and one cut, with the commonly-used RON95 gasoline rising from VND20,151 (US$0.77) to VND25,575 ($0.97) per liter over the period, according to government pricing announcements.

Global energy prices have surged amid escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran in the Middle East, with the Strait of Hormuz -- a key route for about one-fifth of global oil consumption -- at risk of disruption.

Fares on the metro line remain unchanged under a pricing framework issued by the city government in 2024.

The Ho Chi Minh City Freight Transport Association said transport costs for member companies have risen by about 20–25 percent due to higher fuel prices.