Vietnam Seeks Fuel Support as Diesel, Petrol Prices Surge Amid Global Oil Crisis

[SMM Aluminum Express News] Malaysia is planning to reduce the subsidized RON95 petrol quota under the Budi95 program from 300 liters to 200 liters per month, with implementation expected as early as April amid rising fuel costs linked to the Iran conflict. Once the quota is exceeded, consumers will pay floating market prices, which are set to rise by 60 cents to RM3.87 per liter starting March 26–April 1. Unsubsidized fuel prices have surged sharply since March 11: RON95 has risen 44.94% to RM3.87, RON97 is expected to jump to RM5.15 (+RM1.90 or 58.46%), and diesel in Peninsular Malaysia will increase to RM5.52 (+RM2.40 or 76.92%) over the same period, marking three consecutive weeks of steep hikes driven by global oil volatility.

[SMM Aluminum News Express] Hydro Energi AS has signed a long-term PPA with Alpiq, securing 219 GWh of renewable power annually from 2031 to 2038 in Norway’s NO3 price area, totaling 1.75 TWh. The deal supports Hydro’s low-carbon aluminium production—around 75% below the global average—and aligns with its strategy to combine PPAs, new renewable investments, and upgrades to its own power assets to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

[SMM Aluminum Express News] The Philippines has suspended spot electricity sales until further notice after declaring a national energy emergency due to fuel supply risks and price volatility triggered by the Middle East conflict. Authorities aim to curb a projected 16% surge in power prices, shifting to a temporary pricing system while prioritizing renewables and conserving fuel inventories.