In a recent report, the Vietnam Maritime and Inland Waterway Administration (VIMAWA) detailed the operational status of Vietnamese vessels in the Middle East amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime corridor that handles about 20% of global oil supplies. Since a conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel began in late February 2026, significant disruptions have occurred, including attacks on vessels and missile threats, which have deterred commercial shipping activities in the region.
VIMAWA reported that, currently, four Vietnamese-flagged vessels and 15 foreign-flagged vessels owned by Vietnamese companies are navigating this complex maritime landscape. In response to the increasing dangers, Vietnamese shipping firms have urged authorities to engage with Iran to ensure safe passage for their vessels and crews. The administration has proposed collaboration between Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its Iranian counterpart to facilitate the safe transit of Vietnamese-flagged ships. Such coordination is crucial for obtaining war-risk insurance, which some insurers are hesitant to provide without explicit assurance of safe passage.
To further support Vietnamese maritime operations, VIMAWA has recommended prioritizing the movement of Vietnamese-flagged vessels carrying essential cargo between the Middle East and Vietnam. This priority would be followed by foreign-flagged vessels owned by Vietnamese companies and crewed by Vietnamese personnel. The administration has also emphasized the importance of facilitating the movement of vessels transporting crude oil and petroleum products to maintain Vietnam’s energy security.
In addition to diplomatic efforts, VIMAWA suggests that Vietnamese diplomatic missions in the Middle East take active roles in monitoring the situation and providing timely support to vessels and seafarers in emergency situations. To alleviate the financial burden on shipping firms exacerbated by rising fuel costs, VIMAWA proposed the reduction of entrance and exit fees for ships operating in local maritime areas to zero Vietnamese dong per gross tonnage. This measure aims to enhance financial viability for shipping firms during these tumultuous times.
Overall, VIMAWA’s report highlights the critical intersection of maritime safety, international diplomacy, and economic sustainability as Vietnam navigates challenges in a geopolitically sensitive region. By advocating for the safety of its vessels and proactive diplomatic engagement with Iran, Vietnam aims to protect its maritime interests while ensuring a steady supply of energy and goods essential for its economy.
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