Sidewalk leasing: Smart move for Hanoi’s future

Would you rather sit on the pavement, enjoying food and drinks while watching the world go by, or would you prefer to walk freely without any obstacles, as businesses begin to lease space on the sidewalks?

This is not just about preference. It’s about how cities balance public space between commerce and pedestrians. Some love street dining, where people gather and experience urban life. Others want clear sidewalks for easy walking, especially for the elderly, parents with strollers, and people with disabilities. Both sides have valid points, shaping a bigger discussion on urban planning.

In Hanoi, this debate has gained increasing public attention. Sidewalks in central districts, particularly in Hoan Kiem, serve as both pedestrian walkways and commercial hubs. With street vending a fact of life, local authorities piloted a sidewalk rental program in some locations in 2021, allowing businesses to operate legally while maintaining a degree of order. Now, with a broader policy under consideration, the question becomes more pressing: Should sidewalks be optimized for economic growth or remain pedestrian-friendly?

From my perspective, legalizing street vending goes beyond convenience - it opens up opportunities for small entrepreneurs and contributes to Hanoi's economic growth. Street vendors, food stalls, and cafes are a defining feature of the city's identity. Giving them a structured way to operate without fear of eviction.

In my view, legalizing sidewalk vending not only generates revenue for the city but also creates opportunities to reinvest in essential infrastructure and public services. I believe that cities like Paris demonstrate how a well-regulated sidewalk economy can boost both economic vitality and urban development.

I also think that sidewalk businesses are more accessible and affordable than traditional stores. From my perspective, street vendors offer an authentic taste of Hanoi at prices far lower than those at high-end restaurants, ensuring that people from all walks of life benefit from the city’s growth.

Tourism is a key driver of Hanoi’s economy, and I’m convinced that the city’s lively streets are a major draw. In my opinion, visitors come to Hanoi not for sterile, over-regulated commercial spaces but for the energy, bustling markets, and rich cultural experiences. I believe that well-managed sidewalk businesses would further enhance this appeal by providing tourists with easy access to local goods and cuisine in an organized setting.

I’ve also observed that historic cities like Hoi An have successfully leveraged pedestrian-friendly areas to boost tourism. By establishing clear rules for where and how businesses can operate, I’m confident that Hanoi can avoid overcrowding while preserving its unique street culture. Tourists, in my experience, would appreciate a well-structured environment that lets them enjoy the city’s charm without unnecessary inconvenience.

One concern I share about sidewalk renting is its potential impact on pedestrian movement. However, I think that a structured policy—one that designates specific areas for commerce while keeping sidewalks clear—can actually improve walkability. Without regulation, vendors might set up shop wherever possible, often forcing pedestrians into the roadway. A clear framework, in my opinion, would prevent this and create a safer, more navigable urban environment.

From a sustainability standpoint, I see legalizing sidewalk vending as aligned with broader urban goals. Supporting pedestrian spaces can reduce our reliance on cars, leading to lower emissions and cleaner air. I find the experiences of cities like Tokyo and Amsterdam particularly compelling, as they show that pedestrian-friendly policies can improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion. If Hanoi aims to modernize while preserving its cultural roots, I believe integrating sustainable sidewalk use into urban planning is essential.

I do recognize, however, that sidewalk vending presents challenges. One concern for me is that prime locations might be monopolized by larger businesses, potentially marginalizing small vendors. To me, fair licensing is crucial—ensuring equal access to rental space so that small entrepreneurs aren’t priced out of the market.

Transparency in the permitting process is another point I consider critical. I strongly advocate for strict oversight and public accountability to prevent favoritism and corruption from undermining the fairness of the system. If enforced properly, I’m convinced that sidewalk leasing can remain an opportunity for many rather than a privilege for only a few.

I also acknowledge that issues like litter and noise must be addressed with any street vending policy. While more businesses might lead to more waste and disturbance, I view this as a call for stronger regulations rather than a reason to oppose the policy outright. Clear rules on cleanliness, waste management, and noise control can help balance economic activity with maintaining public order.

Ultimately, I believe the core issue isn’t whether sidewalk leasing should be allowed but how to balance the economic benefits with the need for public space. In my opinion, a well-designed policy should support business growth while preserving urban order and ensuring pedestrian comfort.

I see a tremendous opportunity for Hanoi to transform its informal sidewalk commerce into a cornerstone of its urban development strategy. If managed correctly, this initiative isn’t just a necessary step—it’s a strategic move toward building a vibrant, sustainable, and dynamic city.

With careful regulation, transparency, and inclusive urban planning, I’m confident that Hanoi’s sidewalks can continue to serve as lively hubs of culture, commerce, and community, enhancing both the city’s economic prospects and its walkability. In my view, the real question is not whether sidewalk leasing should occur, but how it can be implemented to benefit all stakeholders.