On November 15, 2024, the Ministry of Transport issued Circular 36/2024/TT-BGTVT ("Circular 36") to replace Circular 12/2020/TT-BGTVT ("Circular 12") regarding the organization and management of road transport activities and the operation of bus stations, parking lots. Circular 36 introduces several notable provisions as follows:
1. Abolishment of the Requirement for Overlapping Starting and Ending Points in Passenger Transport Contracts
The condition requiring the starting point (the first passenger pick-up location specified in the transport contract) and the ending point (the last passenger drop-off location specified in the transport contract) to overlap for contract-based passenger transportation by automobile has been abolished under Circular 36. This revision facilitates transportation businesses in serving passengers and aligns with the prevalent passenger transport models today, such as technology-based ride services or high-quality vehicles.
2. Unified Management of Vehicle emblem issuance
Decree 10/2020/ND-CP mandates that transport vehicles display corresponding emblems, such as "TAXI VEHICLE," "BUS VEHICLE," etc. However, it lacks specific provisions for uniform application regarding emblem usage on vehicles. Addressing this issue, Circular 36 no longer specifies the attachment of vehicle emblems on automobiles as a condition for transport business operations (in essence, this omission does not alter the obligation to attach emblems by enterprises). Instead, it entrusts the Directorate for Roads of Vietnam with developing electronic procedures for online public services related to the issuance and renewal of emblems, ensuring uniform application nationwide. This regulation contributes to the streamlined management of vehicles used for transport business purposes.
3. Addition of Requirements for Initial Public Announcement of Passenger Bus Stations, Freight Stations, and Rest Stops Before Operation
Circular 36 mandates that transport businesses make an initial public announcement regarding passenger bus stations, freight stations, and rest stops before commencing operations. Accordingly, enterprises must prepare complete documentation in compliance with regulations and obtain approval from the competent authority (for passenger bus station operations) to complete the announcement before officially commencing activities. This requirement enables regulatory authorities to monitor service quality from the initial operational phase closely.
Circular 36 takes effect on January 1, 2025./.
Comment: