The news that the prime minister has requested Hanoi City to implement a ban on fossil fuel motorcycles and mopeds in the city center—specifically in the area inside Belt Road 1—starting in mid-2026 has sparked a range of reactions, with initial responses largely in agreement. In recent years, growing concern has surrounded Hanoi’s ranking as the second most polluted city in the world according to IQAir. The deterioration in air quality is increasingly evident to commuters and pedestrians alike, especially as the number of gasoline vehicles continues to rise across the city. Developing and implementing a roadmap to phase out fossil fuel vehicles is not just necessary—it is urgent. However, alongside general support for the ban, many have stressed the need for a clearly defined roadmap—one that not only sets out the timeline for implementation but also outlines supportive measures to ease the transition for citizens. The most pressing question from the public is how to switch from gasoline vehicles to electric ones, given the significant cost involved for many households. Therefore, the roadmap should include incentives such as tax exemptions or transferable tax credits for electric vehicle purchases. Rather than offering direct subsidies, the Government could provide credits that […]