Ongoing Controversy Between Hong Kong's Taxi Industry and Ride-Hailing Services
The taxi industry in Hong Kong continues to face significant challenges due to the rise of ride-hailing services like Uber. This ongoing dispute has led to strikes, public demonstrations, and heated debates over service quality, regulatory practices, and the future of urban transportation in the city.
Taxi Drivers' Strikes and Protests
In November 2023, approximately 500 taxi drivers initiated a three-hour strike in the Tai Po area, protesting the government's perceived inaction against illegal ride-hailing services, particularly Uber. Their primary demands included stricter enforcement against unlicensed ride-hailing services and opposition to a proposed demerit point system for taxis.
The tension escalated in February 2025 when the Hong Kong Tele-call Taxi Association threatened a five-day strike if the government did not clamp down on unregulated ride-hailing platforms such as Uber and Amap. The union, representing about 30,000 members, planned to urge authorities to halt the operations of these platforms and prosecute drivers offering services without a hire-car permit.
Service Quality and Public Perception
Public dissatisfaction with traditional taxi services has been a longstanding issue in Hong Kong. Common complaints include drivers refusing passengers, overcharging, and taking longer routes. In response, the Hong Kong Taxi Council launched initiatives to improve the industry's image, such as deploying "courtesy ambassadors" to promote best practices among drivers. However, skepticism remains among residents, many of whom have experienced poor service firsthand.
Regulatory Challenges and Industry Dynamics
The Hong Kong government's approach to regulating ride-hailing services has been cautious, influenced by the significant financial interests tied to taxi licenses, which are limited in number and hold substantial market value. This has led to a complex regulatory environment where Uber operates in a legal gray area, further fueling disputes between traditional taxi operators and ride-hailing services.
In June 2024, Uber Hong Kong's general manager, Estyn Chung, expressed readiness to discuss regulatory issues with authorities, emphasizing the potential for Uber to coexist with the city's taxi industry. Chung highlighted that Uber could provide flexible working opportunities for drivers and meet market demands, suggesting that collaboration could lead to a "win-win situation" for both sectors.
Recent Developments
In February 2025, the Hong Kong Tele-call Taxi Association threatened a five-day strike if the government failed to act against illegal ride-hailing services. The union emphasized that the continued operation of unregulated platforms created unfair competition and undermined the livelihoods of licensed taxi drivers.
The ongoing controversy underscores the challenges of integrating traditional taxi services with modern ride-hailing platforms in Hong Kong. Balancing regulatory enforcement, service quality improvements, and the interests of various stakeholders remains a complex task for the city's policymakers.
