Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City roll out major green bus subsidies and free fares

The Hanoi municipal government approved a policy that subsidises up to 70% of loan interest for up to ten years for companies that invest in large‑capacity public‑transport infrastructure, electric or other green buses, and related charging, transformer or hydrogen‑refill stations. Eligible firms must borrow from banks or the city development fund, and the support applies to the whole credit contract value, subject to timely repayment conditions.

Ho Chi Minh City announced that, from 1 July to 31 December 2026, all passengers on 134 bus routes will travel for free. The city is simultaneously upgrading its fleet with new air‑conditioned buses and installing reflective blue paint at high‑traffic stops to improve visibility. Of its 2,432 buses, 1,649 (about 68%) already run on electricity, and the city aims to convert another 624 buses to electric in 2026. Officials say the measures are intended to encourage commuters to shift from private vehicles to public transport, reduce congestion and accelerate the transition to greener urban mobility.