Vietnam’s carbon storage potential estimated at 71 billion tonnes
A joint study estimates that three geological areas in Vietnam could store 71 billion tonnes of CO₂. An oil and gas expert says CCUS could help industries that are difficult to decarbonize, but Vietnam needs stronger regulations, technology transfer and small pilot projects to assess costs and safety.
A Vietnamese oil and gas industry expert says carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) could offer a way to reduce emissions in hard-to-abate industries such as steel, cement and refining. A joint study by Vietnam’s National Industry and Energy Group and a Japanese energy technology organization estimates that the Sông Hồng, Cửu Long and Năng Côn Sơn geological areas have a combined CO₂ storage potential of 71 billion tonnes.
Carbon capture and storage could reduce emissions from the oil and gas industry and may improve recovery from oil fields nearing depletion.（VietVance）
Nguyễn Hữu Lương, a senior expert at the Vietnam Petroleum Institute, says CCUS involves separating CO₂ from industrial emissions, purifying it, compressing and transporting it, then injecting it into geological formations or using it to make other products. The oil and gas industry already has relevant facilities and technical experience, and could use CO₂ to improve recovery from oil fields nearing depletion. He sees CCUS as one option for Vietnam to achieve its net zero emissions goal.
Nguyễn Hữu Lương, a senior expert at the Vietnam Petroleum Institute, discusses the use of CCUS in Vietnam.（VietVance）
Nguyễn Hữu Lương says storage projects require careful selection of geological formations and assessment of CO₂ leakage risks. Given the high investment costs, Vietnam should begin with small pilot projects to assess technical, economic and environmental outcomes while strengthening regulations, training personnel and advancing international cooperation.
The Petroleum Law No. 10/2026/QH16, passed by Vietnam’s National Assembly on August 23, 2026, adds provisions on carbon capture and storage linked to oil and gas activities. It will take effect on March 1, 2027. The Ministry of Industry and Trade is finalizing draft implementing regulations for the law.
Source: VietVance
