HCMC – The Government is set to introduce new national emission standards for automobiles by March and motorcycles by April, as part of efforts to curb urban air pollution.
According to a recent directive from Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has been tasked with finalizing Vietnam’s emission regulations and submitting an implementation roadmap to the prime minister within this month, the Government news website (baochinhphu.vn) reported.
Developing national emission standards for motor vehicles is a key initiative aligned with the Law on Environmental Protection and the Law on Road Traffic Order and Safety. While various ministries and local authorities have been working on technical standards, inconsistent progress has delayed regulatory approval.
To accelerate the process, the deputy prime minister has instructed the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment to conduct comprehensive assessments and finalize the emission regulations. The ministry must also coordinate with the Ministry of Construction, the Hanoi and HCMC People’s Committees, and other major cities to propose restrictions on high-emission vehicles in areas with severe air pollution.
The Ministry of Construction has been directed to ensure that Vietnam Register provides vehicle emission inspection data to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment by March 20. This data will be crucial in refining and enforcing the new national emission standards.
Authorities are also considering broader urban planning adjustments, including designated lanes for specific vehicle types and improved pedestrian infrastructure, to promote cleaner and more efficient transportation.
The Ministry of Science and Technology will work alongside other government agencies to establish the legal and technical frameworks required for the effective enforcement of emission standards.
The initiative is part of Vietnam’s broader strategy to reduce vehicular pollution and promote sustainable urban mobility, reflecting growing concerns over deteriorating air quality in major cities.
