Uber Faces Potential Curbs in Hong Kong as Government Plans New Regulations
Hong Kong’s government is set to unveil a new online ride-hailing management plan. This move could significantly impact ride-hailing services like Uber, potentially affecting drivers and passengers alike.
Proposed Regulations
The forthcoming plan from the Hong Kong government may limit the number of drivers or vehicles permitted on ride-hailing platforms. Uber has alerted its 1.5 million users in Hong Kong about the potential impact. They are warning that these new regulations could lead to lower earnings for drivers, more order cancellations, and longer wait times for riders.
BREAKING: Hong Kong is set to unveil new regulations for ride-hailing services like Uber, which could limit the number of drivers and vehicles on the platform.
Government’s Stance
The government’s plans include specific legislation for online car-hailing. In February of this year, **Lee Song En**, Director of the Transportation Department, stated that these measures aim to ensure the safety of citizens and the quality of transport services. The goal is to establish a regulatory framework by 2025 and to consult with the Legislative Council.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety of citizens and maintaining high-quality transportation services.”
—Lee Song En, Director of the Transportation Department
The Hong Kong taxi industry has long advocated for increased supervision of ride-hailing platforms. Taxi license plate prices have dropped in recent years, reflecting industry concerns. In 2024, the taxi industry accounted for around 18% of all public transportation trips in Hong Kong (Hong Kong Transport Statistics).
Market Dynamics
Currently, online car-hailing operates in Hong Kong without specific legislation, primarily using a “private car pick-up” model. The forthcoming regulations would be the first time the sector would face official oversight, fundamentally impacting the market.
