Opinion By Kate Cohen
The sidewalk fees, as proposed by the authorities, are nothing short of a ‘poor tax.’
Ho Chi Minh City, with its bustling streets and delicious street food, has long been regarded as a food lover’s paradise. Sidewalks filled with fragrant stalls serving affordable and tasty culinary delights have not only become an integral part of the city’s unique identity but also a lifeline for many locals during challenging economic times. However, the recently imposed sidewalk fees by the authorities threaten to dismantle this vibrant street food scene, adversely impacting both the city’s cultural heritage and struggling entrepreneurs.
The Unique Street Food Culture at Stake:
Street food is deeply rooted in the fabric of Ho Chi Minh City’s identity. The city’s sidewalks have served as a canvas for vendors to showcase their culinary talents, allowing locals and tourists alike to experience the true flavors of Vietnam. From Chao to Bánh Xèo, the street food scene offers a diverse range of affordable options, enabling people of all economic backgrounds to indulge in the city’s gastronomic delights.
Survival in Challenging Economic Times:
For many street vendors, the sidewalk stalls are not just a means of making a livelihood but a symbol of resilience amidst economic hardships. The sidewalk trade provides an entry point to entrepreneurship for those with limited resources, enabling them to earn a decent income and support their families. By charging exorbitant fees for the use of sidewalk space, the city officials are effectively squeezing the lifeblood out of these small businesses, pushing them towards closure.
The Poor Tax Dilemma:
The sidewalk fees, as proposed by the authorities, are nothing short of a ‘poor tax.’ This regressive measure disproportionately affects the vulnerable sections of society, punishing struggling entrepreneurs who relied on the sidewalks to survive. With fees ranging from VND20,000 to VND350,000 per square meter per month, the burden imposed on street vendors becomes insurmountable, leading to closures and loss of livelihoods.
The Impact on Tourism:
Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant culinary scene has always been a major attraction for tourists. The streets filled with tantalizing aromas and vibrant food stalls have become iconic images of the city. However, by stifling the street food scene, the authorities risk not only alienating tourists but also undermining the city’s tourism industry. The charm and authenticity of the sidewalk food stalls are irreplaceable assets that attract visitors seeking an authentic cultural experience, and their disappearance would leave a void no high-end restaurant could fill.
Instead of punishing street vendors with excessive fees, the city officials should explore more sensible alternatives to maintain the vibrant street food scene.
Ho Chi Minh City’s street food scene stands as a testament to the unique cultural identity and entrepreneurial spirit of the Vietnamese people. Imposing sidewalk fees threatens to destroy this vibrant legacy, choking the life out of both the city’s culinary culture and struggling street vendors. The authorities must reconsider their approach, realizing that nurturing the street food scene is not just about economics but also about preserving the DNA of Ho Chi Minh City itself.
