# Economic challenges for Vietnam gig workers > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/economic-challenges-for-vietnam-gig-workers > Updated: 2026-09-16T22:22:00.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. In Ho Chi Minh City, ride-hailing and delivery drivers are increasingly utilizing gig work as a primary means of financial survival. Individual accounts highlight how drivers use daily earnings to cover essential costs such as rent, food, childcare, and medical expenses for family members. Broader research indicates that the gig economy has transitioned from a source of supplemental income to a full-time occupation for the majority of workers. A survey of drivers from platforms including Grab, Green SM, and Be found that 93.6% consider ride-hailing their primary job, with many working between 8 and 10 hours daily, and over 35% exceeding 10 hours. Economic challenges persist due to stagnant income and high working hours. For motorcycle drivers, average earnings are approximately 34,600 VND per hour, while car drivers earn about 50,400 VND per hour, excluding costs for fuel, maintenance, and vehicle depreciation. Consequently, there is significant demand for legal recognition and social welfare, with approximately 92.9% of surveyed drivers seeking a clearer legal status and 87.9% seeking mechanisms to participate in social insurance. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-16: Vietnam ride-hailing drivers face low wages and social security gaps Ride-hailing drivers in Vietnam face low wages and a lack of social security, with most now treating the gig economy as their primary full-time occupation. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vietnam-ride-hailing-drivers-face-low-wages-and-social-security-gaps ### 2026-09-13: Ho Chi Minh City drivers rely on gig work for family support Ride-hailing drivers in Ho Chi Minh City are utilizing gig work to manage essential family costs, including medical expenses and childcare. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ho-chi-minh-city-drivers-rely-on-gig-work-for-family-support --- Cite as: Economic challenges for Vietnam gig workers. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/economic-challenges-for-vietnam-gig-workers