Authorities call for safety review of electric tuk-tuks used for tourist transport in Vietnam’s Phu Quoc

In recent times, many electric tuk-tuks, three-wheeled vehicles equipped with cabins for carrying passengers or goods, have been seen parked along major streets such as Ba Muoi Thang Tu, Tran Hung Dao, and Hung Vuong in Duong Dong Ward, Phu Quoc City, waiting to pick up tourists.

Some of Phu Quoc’s inner-city roads are narrow, and the presence of these vehicles has contributed to localized traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Due to the increasing number of these vehicles in circulation, the Phu Quoc City People’s Committee has directed relevant units to review and assess the safety of these vehicles.

Currently, many electric tuk-tuks are spontaneously operating in the city. 

The city is conducting a thorough check of these vehicles, including registration, inspection, and traffic safety compliance, to ensure safety for tourists, said Tran Minh Khoa, chairman of the Phu Quoc City People's Committee.

Khoa added that the city will conduct a full assessment of the number of electric tuk-tuks as well.

Local businesses operating these vehicles are encouraged to carry out internal checks to ensure they meet all transportation and safety regulations for tourist transport.

Given that Phu Quoc is actively promoting itself as a national and international tourist destination, ensuring high-quality transportation services is a top priority.

The rental of motorbikes to tourists for self-driving has raised safety concerns. 

Although this issue remains relatively minor and not yet widespread, local authorities have emphasized the importance of compliance with traffic regulations.

Previously, Tuoi Tre News reported an incident involving a foreign tourist who rode a motorbike along Tran Hung Dao Street, letting go of the handlebars and riding without a helmet, which posed a traffic safety risk to others.

Local police summoned the tourist for a warning and required several motorbike rental businesses to sign commitments ensuring they operate in accordance with regulations.