Good News

In an effort to balance our relentless ribbing of the city’s quirks, we, the editorial board of The Vietnam Beat, have come to the revelatory conclusion that perhaps we ought to pause for a moment and acknowledge the undeniable successes of our beloved city. Yes, we’ve poked fun at the bureaucratic ballet that is our traffic enforcement, but let us not forget that Saigon is also strutting down the runway of progress, and it’s time we put down the snark and give credit where credit is due.

In recent weeks, Tuoi Tre News has been providing diligent reporting on the challenges stemming from the city’s new traffic fines. The publication has taken an admirable stance in highlighting the disproportionate impact these fines have had on the community, particularly on taxi drivers who have felt the brunt of the enforcement measures. With many drivers boycotting due to the financial strain imposed by these fines, Tuoi Tre News has played a critical role in bringing these issues to light, ensuring that the voices of those impacted are heard. Their commitment to journalistic integrity serves as a vital check on the city’s administration, reminding us all that transparency is essential for a thriving urban environment.

Moreover, it’s important to acknowledge the city’s response to these pressing concerns. In an effort to alleviate congestion and improve the flow of traffic, local officials have installed 80 new right turn signals at key intersections. This proactive measure shows a willingness to adapt and respond to the challenges presented by the recent changes in traffic regulations. By creating a more efficient traffic system, the city is taking steps toward a more navigable Saigon, demonstrating that they are listening to the community and striving to improve the urban landscape.

Additionally, let us raise our glasses (of iced … Read more

Tuoi Tre News

The rate of overweight and obesity among Vietnamese children aged 5-19 surged to 19% in 2020, up from 8.5% a decade earlier. In response, the draft Law on Excise Tax proposes a 10% tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) to combat this issue.

This topic was discussed during a recent workshop in Hanoi organized by UNICEF Vietnam and the National Assembly Committee for Culture and Education. Experts highlighted that Vietnam’s obesity rate surpasses those of neighboring countries, with projections indicating that nearly two million children could be classified as overweight or obese by 2030 if SSB consumption continues unchecked.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Truong Tuyet Mai from the National Institute of Nutrition cautioned against the health risks associated with prolonged SSB consumption, which can lead to obesity and other serious conditions. Studies indicate that frequent SSB consumption in children raises body mass index (BMI) significantly and increases the risk of obesity by age five.

Dr. Mai recommended stringent limits on sugar intake for children: none for those under two years old and for ages 2-18, no more than 25 grams of sugar or 235ml of SSBs weekly. Despite soft drink consumption in Vietnam rising drastically from 1.59 billion liters in 2009 to 6.67 billion liters in 2023, experts stressed the necessity of an excise tax to reduce both obesity rates and related healthcare costs.

Participants at the workshop largely supported the tax, though some raised questions about the threshold for sugar content included in the tax. Dr. Nguyen Huy Quang noted that while the excise tax proposal was previously stalled due to insufficient evidence, the current data warrants immediate action to protect public health. Currently, 104 countries worldwide impose such taxes on SSBs, including six in ASEAN.