Te impact of the fee policy for temporary use of sidewalks on the livelihood of vendors: a case study of District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Abstract

Sidewalks in Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City have long been spaces for economic, social,
and cultural activities. However, the issue of rampant sidewalk encroachment and chaos
has become an increasingly urgent one. To put this issue right more effectively, Ho
Chi Minh City issued Decision No. 32/2023/QĐ-UBND on July 26, 2023, establishing
regulations for the temporary management and use of parts of roads and sidewalks in the
City. This study evaluates the policy impacts on vendors’ livelihoods since the enforcement
of Decision No. 32/2023/QĐ-UBND. Using both quantitative and qualitative research

methods - including secondary data analysis, primary data collection from observations,
interviews, and surveys of 160 fixed and mobile vendors - the study applies the Sustainable
Livelihoods Framework (SLF) to assess these changes. The results indicate that while
the policy has contributed to urban management and an increase in revenue source, it
has saddled the vendors with challenges, particularly vendors in the non-official sectors.
These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers to seek ways to improve
economic opportunities for urban populace from all walks of life.