In the report to the Ministry of Construction on the implementation of the Prime Minister’s Directive 20/2025 on urgent pollution reduction measures, the Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) Department of Construction stated that the city’s green-transition plan for 2025-2050 is based on assessments of current traffic conditions and emission levels. The plan consists of two phases: (1) the full transition of the city’s bus fleet to electric or alternative-energy vehicles by 2030; and (2) transition of taxis, ride-hailing vehicles, private cars, and public service vehicles.
Low-emission zones are planned for the city center, Can Gio Commune, and the Con Dao Special Zone. Beginning some time in 2026, vehicles that fail to meet emission standards will be restricted from entering these zones. From 2027 to 2030, all motorbikes will undergo emission testing, and non-compliant vehicles will face additional restrictions, progressively expanding to suburban areas. By 2031, the low-emission zone will extend to Ring Road No. 1, with stricter standards to be enforced from 2032 onward.
HCMC is also developing the infrastructure to support the transition, including public charging stations, battery-swapping systems, and an integrated e-ticketing system for buses and the metro network. Vehicle inspection stations will be required to enforce environmental standards.
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Reference: The Saigon Times, 2 December 2025
