During a regular press briefing on July 3, a representative from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MARD) announced that the draft decision by the Prime Minister regarding motorbike emissions testing is currently under internal review. Once finalized, the document will be submitted to the Ministry of Justice for appraisal.

Ho Kien Trung, Deputy Director of the Department of Environment under MARD, emphasized that emissions testing for motorbikes is a well-founded policy aligned with Vietnam’s urban pollution control goals.

“Many countries have already adopted this measure, and it’s time we implement it to improve air quality,” Trung stated.

No phased implementation

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Motorbike emissions testing is seen as essential.

Trung explained that while some had proposed a staggered rollout - starting with older motorbikes manufactured before 2008, then gradually expanding to newer models - this “rolling” approach could take 7-10 years, leading to delays and fragmented outcomes.

The Department of Environment advocates for a single-step nationwide launch based on a clear schedule. This would not only improve the effectiveness of emissions control but also minimize long-term impacts on citizens, particularly vulnerable groups.

The proposed timeline will begin in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City from July 1, 2027. Centrally governed cities and provinces will follow in 2028, with nationwide implementation set for July 1, 2030.

Hanoi currently has around 5.6 million registered motorbikes, while Ho Chi Minh City has 8.5 million. Yet there are only 282 certified emissions inspection centers nationwide - 31 in Hanoi and 39 in Ho Chi Minh City.

“The Department has coordinated closely with the Vietnam Register to devise practical solutions. The priority is to expand and upgrade existing facilities. At the same time, we aim to promote socialization by authorizing dealerships and maintenance workshops as emissions inspection agents,” Trung noted.

The uniform rollout is expected to significantly reduce motorbike-related air pollution in major cities and mark a substantial shift toward more sustainable and environmentally conscious traffic management nationwide.

Vu Diep