KATHMANDU: Vietnam will ban fossil-fuel motorcycles and mopeds in central Hanoi from July 1, 2026. The move aims to reduce air pollution in the capital city, according to state media reports.
Motorbikes running on petrol and diesel will no longer be allowed along Hanoi’s main ring road, which surrounds key business and government districts.
The decision was announced through a directive issued by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.
City authorities have been asked to make necessary preparations. They must ensure full compliance by the deadline.
Motorbikes are the most common form of daily transport in Hanoi. The city has nearly seven million motorcycles. Out of Hanoi’s 8.7 million people, a large majority use two-wheelers for commuting.
Air pollution has become a major problem in Hanoi. The city often ranks among the most polluted cities in the world. In July, air quality index (AQI) levels have been recorded between 115 and 165. This falls in the “poor” to “very poor” range.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 60,000 deaths per year in Vietnam are linked to air pollution.
The ban on petrol motorbikes is part of a wider plan. In the next phase, starting January 2028, restrictions will cover a larger area. At that time, private petrol-fueled cars will also face limitations.
Hanoi is the first major city in Vietnam to set a clear timeline for banning petrol motorbikes. Similar discussions are ongoing in Ho Chi Minh City, which also faces serious traffic and pollution issues.
