The city currently provides free bus services for residents aged 60 and above, at an annual cost of about VND 1.70 trillion (USD 64.50 million). Expanding the policy to all passengers would require roughly VND 7 trillion (USD 266 million) per year from the local budget.

Quang said the proposal is aimed at long-term goals, particularly reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality. He noted that the city has been tasked by Party leadership to address these persistent challenges.

Free bus travel is expected to encourage a shift away from private motorbikes towards public transport. Authorities are also working to improve service efficiency, punctuality and quality, while gradually increasing the number of electric buses through targeted economic and environmental measures.

Tran Quang Lam, director of the Department of Construction, said the city is implementing its 2020-2030 transport infrastructure plan, focusing on expanding public transport and reducing reliance on private vehicles. Ho Chi Minh City currently operates 178 bus routes, including around 600 electric buses, and is working to better integrate bus services with metro lines.

Beyond transport, Quang directed the health sector to provide at least one round of free health screening for all residents in 2026, in line with broader public health goals.

At the meeting, officials also reviewed the city’s socio-economic performance in the first quarter. Truong Minh Huy Vu, director of the Ho Chi Minh City Institute for Development Studies, said the economy grew by more than 8 per cent, below target but still positive compared with recent years.

Foreign investment remained strong, with nearly USD 3 billion in newly registered and additional FDI, mainly in logistics and high technology. Domestic consumption rose 13.7 per cent, while tourism continued to support growth.

The Department of Finance said the city expects to attract a further USD 8.90 billion in FDI in the second quarter.