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28 July 2025

Da Nang Gas Station Refuses Bank Transfers Sparks Response

Da Nang authorities address citizen complaint over PV Oil gas station rejecting cashless payments amid tightening tax policies

On July 27, 2025, the Department of Industry and Trade of Da Nang City officially addressed a citizen's complaint regarding a PV Oil gas station on Hoang Van Thai Street that refused to accept bank transfer payments, forcing customers to pay in cash. This incident has sparked concern especially amid tightening tax regulations and the increasing push for electronic invoicing in Vietnam.

The gas station in question is located at 271-273 Hoang Van Thai, Hoa Khanh Ward, in the Lien Chieu District of Da Nang. According to reports, for approximately one month leading up to mid-July, the station consistently declined payment via bank transfers. A citizen who regularly fueled up at this station recounted that on July 13, 2025, at 9:50 a.m., the staff still refused to accept a bank transfer, compelling them to withdraw cash to complete the transaction.

The refusal to accept bank transfers at a time when cashless payment methods are being strongly encouraged raised eyebrows. The complainant noted the peculiarity of this situation, especially considering the government's ongoing efforts to tighten tax compliance and promote electronic invoicing, which rely heavily on digital payment trails.

Upon receiving the complaint, the Da Nang Department of Industry and Trade promptly issued an official letter to the managing company of the gas station, requesting a detailed report on the incident. The managing company, PV Oil Miền Trung, a member of Vietnam Oil Corporation, acknowledged the validity of the complaint after conducting an internal investigation.

PV Oil Miền Trung disclosed that the employee responsible, Mr. N.D.T, admitted to refusing bank transfer payments due to his advanced age and difficulty in handling technology efficiently. He also expressed fear of financial loss as a reason for his reluctance to process digital payments. This behavior, however, directly violated the company’s long-standing sales policy, which actively promotes cashless transactions.

PV Oil has emphasized that it has equipped all its stations, including the one on Hoang Van Thai Street, with the necessary infrastructure to support various forms of cashless payments. These include bank transfers and popular e-wallet services such as Momo, Viettel Money, and PVOIL 4U. The company has maintained a consistent policy over the years to encourage customers to avoid cash transactions for convenience, transparency, and compliance with tax regulations.

In response to the incident, PV Oil Miền Trung has committed to taking corrective measures. The company plans to discipline the employee involved and reinforce training and supervision to prevent similar violations in the future. This step aims to restore public trust and ensure adherence to the company’s commitment to modern, efficient payment methods.

The Da Nang Department of Industry and Trade’s swift response highlights the local government’s dedication to overseeing fair business practices and protecting consumer rights. By addressing such complaints transparently and holding businesses accountable, the department supports the broader national agenda of digital transformation in commerce and taxation.

This case also sheds light on the challenges faced by some employees in adapting to technological advancements, particularly older workers who may feel overwhelmed or uncertain about digital tools. It underscores the importance of ongoing education and support for staff to smoothly transition into a cashless economy without compromising service quality or compliance.

As Vietnam continues to integrate digital payment systems and electronic invoicing into its economic framework, incidents like these serve as reminders of the human element behind technological change. Stakeholders must balance innovation with inclusivity, ensuring that all participants—customers and employees alike—can navigate the evolving landscape confidently.

In the meantime, customers in Da Nang and beyond are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any irregularities in payment acceptance to relevant authorities. Such vigilance helps enforce regulations and promotes a business environment that aligns with the country’s modernization goals.

Ultimately, this episode at the PV Oil gas station on Hoang Van Thai Street acts as a microcosm of the broader transition challenges faced by Vietnam’s retail and service sectors. With proactive management, clear policies, and supportive training, companies can overcome these hurdles and fully embrace the benefits of a cashless, digitally empowered economy.