Honda’s traditional motorcycle production lines face challenges as Vietnam tightens air pollution control policies. (Photo: Honda)
Vietnam’s plan to ban fuel-powered motorbikes in central Hanoi has triggered alarm among Japanese manufacturers, who say the policy could trigger mass layoffs and bankruptcy. The Japanese government, along with motorcycle makers Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki, has urged Hanoi to delay implementation and provide a transition period for the industry to adapt.
Japan raises concerns over Vietnam’s anti-pollution policy
To tackle urban air pollution, the Vietnamese government plans to phase out gasoline motorcycles starting with a ban in downtown Hanoi from mid-2026, with other major cities like Ho Chi Minh City expected to follow.
