The Hong Kong government is mulling introducing a new regulatory framework for ride-hailing services, requiring drivers to pass a licensing exam and limiting vehicle age, while imposing fees on platforms to support the traditional taxi industry.
The news came as Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan confirmed earlier that authorities are finalizing a proposal to regulate ride-hailing platforms, drivers, and vehicles, with plans to present the scheme to the Legislative Council this month.
The government met with lawmakers on Thursday to discuss the licensing framework, though the exact number of ride-hailing permits remains undecided.
Sources said under the proposed system, ride-hailing drivers would need to pass a specialized licensing exam similar to the test required for taxi drivers, though without the meter operation components. These new licenses would be valid for five years.
In a move designed to address long-standing complaints from the taxi industry, the government plans to levy fees on ride-hailing platforms, with proceeds directed toward supporting traditional cab services.
The regulations would maintain a one-way flexibility in employment, while taxi drivers could work for ride-hailing platforms, the reverse would not be permitted.
Authorities are also considering vehicle age restrictions for ride-hailing services, though specific limits remain under discussion.
Key measures in the proposed framework
Mandatory licensing exam: Ride-hailing drivers will need to pass a test similar to the one for taxi drivers, excluding meter-related content
5-year license validity: The ride-hailing permits will expire after five years to prevent speculation
Fees on ride-hailing platforms: A portion of the revenue will be redirected to support the taxi industry
Cross-industry work permissions: Taxi drivers will be allowed to work for ride-hailing platforms, but ride-hailing drivers cannot switch to taxis
Vehicle age restrictions: Older cars may be barred from operating as ride-hailing vehicles to maintain service standards
Balancing competition and market stability
Meanwhile, the Transport Department’s survey revealed that Hong Kong sees 880,000 daily point-to-point transport orders, with 80 percent served by taxis and 20 percent by ride-hailing services.
Commenting on the move, DAB Lawmaker Ben Chan Hang-pan urged the government to swiftly enact primary legislation to prevent price wars and market chaos.
(Marco Lam)
