Hanoi set to ban gas-powered motorbikes in city center starting July 2026

Saigon Driving License

Introduction

Vietnam’s capital is taking bold steps toward a greener future. Starting July 2026, Hanoi will ban all gas-powered motorbikes and scooters from operating within its downtown core, inside “Vành Đai 1”. This landmark decision, ordered by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh under a directive issued on July 12, is part of a larger initiative to cut emissions and improve air quality in the city.

Phased Vehicle Restrictions

2026: Fossil fuel–powered motorbikes banned inside “Vành Đai 1”, covering the city center and Old Quarter.
2028: Restrictions expand to include gas-powered private cars within “Vành Đai 1” and “Vành Đai 2”.
2030: Hanoi aims to restrict all personal fossil fuel vehicles inside “Vành Đai 3”, which encircles the city and links to regional expressways.

Vision for a Low-Emission City

The government’s goal is to transform Hanoi into a low-emission city, prioritizing electric vehicles (EVs) and clean public transport. The city must finalize its Low-Emission Zone (LEZ) plan by Q3 2025. This will include measures to modernize transit, expand EV charging networks, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

By 2030, Hanoi’s public transport will integrate major neighborhoods and transport hubs using electric buses and metro lines. Financial incentives will support companies building or assembling EVs, while infrastructure improvements will cater to EV owners citywide.

Incentives and Policy Changes

Higher registration and parking fees for fossil fuel vehicles in central zones.
Ban on single-use plastics in restaurants and hotels inside “Vành Đai 1” starting late 2025.
Pilot LEZ zones begin January 2025 in areas formerly part of Hoan Kiem and Ba Dinh Districts.
Mandatory LEZs across high-pollution zones by 2031.

Stronger Environmental Enforcement

The directive also focuses on cracking down on pollution, with enhanced monitoring and accountability:

Local leaders will be held responsible for inaction.
Ministry of Public Security will investigate major environmental violations.
New laws by 2025 will increase fines and enforcement powers.
Real-time monitoring systems will be required at factories, feeding data into a national database.
Public listings will reveal which facilities comply with sensor installation laws.

Investing in a Greener Future

To support these efforts, the Ministry of Finance is proposing new emission fees and tax incentives for clean tech, green transport, and waste treatment investments. The government also plans to leverage smart monitoring, AI, and public-private partnerships to build the infrastructure for a low-carbon economy.

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