Hanoi invites Ford, US firms to partner on emission reduction
Hanoi and Ford Motor are seeking deeper cooperation on cutting greenhouse gas emissions as the city prepares to roll out low-emission zones and tighten transport rules to address worsening air pollution.
THE HANOI TIMES — Hanoi welcomes US companies, including Ford Motor, to partner in innovative investment and operational solutions aimed at reducing emissions, Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee Vu Dai Thang said on January 28.
Thang was speaking at a meeting with senior executives from Ford Motor’s International Markets Group, where discussions covered environmental policy, transport regulations and investment conditions.
Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Vu Dai Thang (right) meets with Simonetta Verdi, Ford’s Managing Director Government Affairs for the International Markets. Photo: The Hanoi Times
He said reducing air pollution remains a top priority, noting that Hanoi will pilot low-emission zones (LEZs) in selected areas before expanding them in line with national directives.
“Hanoi, together with the rest of the country, will strictly implement Vietnam’s commitments on greenhouse gas reduction under COP16,” Thang said.
The meeting also reviewed the Prime Minister’s Directive No. 20 on urgent pollution control measures and Hanoi’s Decision No. 01/2026 on road traffic management, including vehicle restrictions.
Thang praised Ford’s performance in Vietnam, saying the company’s growth reflects an improving investment climate and strong Vietnam-US economic ties.
He encouraged Ford Vietnam and other firms to invest more decisively in next-generation low-emission vehicles.
Simonetta Verdi, Ford’s Managing Director for Government Affairs for International Markets, said 2025 marks 30 years since Ford entered Vietnam.
Ford Vietnam’s 2025 sales rose 20% from a year earlier to a record 50,450 vehicles, giving the automaker an 8.6% market share. The company received a certificate of merit from the prime minister.
"Ford Vietnam hopes to continue receiving support from Hanoi authorities to further contribute to the Vietnam-US economic ties", Verdi noted.
Caro Hosier, Ford Motor’s Director of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering for International Markets, said Ford supports Hanoi’s LEZ policy as a clear framework to phase out older, more polluting vehicles.
She proposed short-term steps to cut emissions, including enforcing Euro 5 fuel standards, expanding incentives for hybrid vehicles and building charging infrastructure compatible with multiple electric vehicle models.
“Ford is ready to share research and practical experience in accompanying Hanoi’s efforts toward low emissions and green transition, thereby supporting the city in implementing its development goals under a 100-year vision,” Hosier said.
Hosier welcomed Hanoi’s peak-hour restrictions on large trucks as a practical step to ease congestion, while calling for clear guidance during implementation.
Thang said the prime minister’s Directive No. 20 plays a critical role in Vietnam’s broader effort to reduce urban emissions, especially air pollution.
He noted Hanoi’s air quality often ranks poorly, therefore the city needs urgent and effective solutions to protect public health and manage traffic.
On LEZ rollout, Thang said Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City will start with pilot zones and expand gradually under the prime minister’s guidance.
Acknowledging that the roadmap could affect business operations, particularly vehicle manufacturers, he said the city is assessing impacts with relevant agencies and urged businesses to support the process.
Thang also asked companies to cooperate with restrictions on trucks weighing two tons or more to ensure traffic safety during major events, holidays and festivals.
He urged Ford to closely monitor policy updates linked to Hanoi’s long-term development plans, including zoning and planning changes that could shape future LEZ expansion.
