In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, Vietnam's traditional gas stations are beginning to embrace technology to modernize their operations. Many of these stations have historically relied on manual methods for inventory management, production tracking, and revenue reporting, often using paper records or Excel spreadsheets. This outdated system has become increasingly untenable as transaction volumes rise and the need for transparency grows.
A gas station owner in Ho Chi Minh City expressed frustration with the old ways, stating, "Before, we only compiled data manually at the end of the day or week—sometimes even monthly. With multiple shifts and accumulating invoices, it was easy to miss or confuse data. Every time I wanted to check inventory or reconcile debts, I had to call each employee for a manual report. It was exhausting and time-consuming." This sentiment reflects a broader issue within the industry.
As operational costs rise and fuel prices fluctuate unpredictably, the limitations of traditional management models have become glaringly apparent. Even a minor error in transaction logs or a delay in data entry can lead to substantial losses. Recognizing the need for change, the petroleum sector is increasingly looking towards innovative solutions.
Enter PVConnect OIL, a digital governance platform developed by PVcomBank specifically for petroleum businesses. This platform is gaining traction as gas stations seek to modernize their operations. In April 2025, Vinh Manh Company in Nghe An became a pioneer in implementing PVConnect OIL. Operating 24/7 and handling up to 10,000 liters of fuel daily, the company faced significant challenges in managing inventory and reconciling financial records.
Initially, the transition to this new technological system raised concerns among staff. A representative from Vinh Manh Company shared, "Switching from old methods to a completely new technology made us anxious. We worried about usability, potential errors, and complexity." However, within a month of implementation, those concerns began to dissipate.
With a user-friendly interface and simple operations, PVConnect OIL enables business owners to monitor every aspect of their station from their smartphones—tracking inventory levels, sales figures, and outstanding debts. Each transaction at the fuel pump is meticulously recorded, synchronized for electronic invoicing, and allows for quick audits. Notably, this solution benefits not only management but also employees, streamlining operations and reducing manual burdens while minimizing errors in the import-export process.
PVConnect OIL acts as a true digital assistant, supporting both managers and staff throughout their shifts. Currently, Vietnam has thousands of gas stations still operating under traditional models. The expectations from the market are rising—not just in terms of pricing, but also regarding transparency, professionalism, and responsiveness.
As the intersection of practical needs and technological potential becomes clearer, platforms like PVConnect OIL offer a fitting solution for digital transformation in the petroleum industry. In a time when digitalization is a priority across all sectors, bringing technology into less spotlighted areas like fuel retail represents a significant step forward. Sometimes, these quiet changes can spark substantial movement within an entire industry.
Meanwhile, in another corner of Vietnam, the movement known as "Binh Dan Hoc Vu So" is making strides to equip citizens with essential digital skills. This initiative aims to enhance public understanding of digital tools, including smartphones, software applications, and online privacy protection, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.
The community digital technology group (TCNSCĐ) in area 8 of Nua town, Triệu Sơn, has been active in promoting digital transformation among households. They assist residents in navigating government policies and laws related to the "Binh Dan Hoc Vu So" movement while guiding them in the installation and use of various digital platforms and applications.
In April 2025, a local resident, Mr. Le Viet Hung, shared his experience of receiving support from TCNSCĐ members in using public service applications. "Before we had online services, my family had to spend half a day just to handle paperwork. Sometimes, I would make multiple trips because I forgot documents or didn’t understand the procedures. Although I had received help installing the online service app, I was still unsure of the steps, so I would go in person. Fortunately, this April, TCNSCĐ members came to my house to guide me through every small step, and I gradually became more confident using the software," he recounted.
Mr. Hung is among hundreds of residents in Nua town who have benefited from the TCNSCĐ's dedicated approach to digital education. Ms. Hứa Thị Thúy, the secretary of the youth union in Nua town, stated that during peak support periods, TCNSCĐ helped 3,500 residents install digital signatures in the latter months of 2024. In March and April 2025, 3,790 residents were integrated into VneID, achieving an impressive 81% participation rate.
In Dinh Hung commune, four villages have been recognized as smart villages, with 100% of the adult population now equipped with the skills to use essential digital platforms and applications on their smartphones. Additionally, all businesses in the area have adopted QR codes for cashless transactions, with 83% of working-age residents holding bank accounts.
In 2024, Dinh Hung commune collaborated with Agribank and Vietcombank to conduct promotional sessions, offering free account openings for residents. The success of these efforts has made cashless payments a daily habit for many in the community. The TCNSCĐ's role has been pivotal in guiding residents to proficiently use digital applications on their smartphones.
As of now, the province has established 2,349 TCNSCĐs, with 19,066 officials, union members, and youth participating. Each group consists of 3 to 9 members, primarily composed of local leaders and youth volunteers who have received training in technology. They provide hands-on assistance to residents, covering everything from basic smartphone operations to safe online transaction skills.
Through their efforts, TCNSCĐs have effectively implemented various digital transformation models, such as "three no's," "cashless markets," "smart villages," and "digital communities," facilitating the online marketing of agricultural products while ensuring traceability and cashless payments. Additionally, they advocate for community safety measures, such as installing security cameras and enhancing local infrastructure.
The TCNSCĐ's proactive approach has significantly accelerated digital transformation at the grassroots level, demonstrating that even in remote areas, the push for digital literacy can lead to meaningful change.
