The quota for Hong Kong’s ride-hailing vehicles to be set by authorities should reflect Uber’s operating situation in the city, the firm’s CEO has urged, adding that the company’s focus on safety will help it stand out among competitors.
Dara Khosrowshahi, speaking to the media on Friday during a visit to Hong Kong, said the company “wouldn’t necessarily object” to a levy on ride-hailing trips to support the taxi trade similar to the system used in some parts of Australia, but the firm’s final stance would depend on the details of the regulatory framework.
“Just in the past year, tourists from over 100 countries have used us right here in Hong Kong, we have 30,000 Uber drivers on the road now, so we’re hoping that any initial quota actually reflects those initial realities,” he said.
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“Obviously, not every single one of them is on the road at a particular time, but we’re hoping that the quota creates continuity in terms of the service and then also allows for growth going forward.”
Lawmakers earlier passed the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill to legalise ride-hailing operations in Hong Kong. The government is expected to propose a regulatory framework early next year, with licences to be issued in the middle of 2026.
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The licensing system will set vehicle age and insurance requirements, and ride-hailing platforms, drivers and vehicles will require separate licences and permits. Authorities plan to use subsidiary legislation to determine the number of ride-hailing vehicle licences to be issued.
Currently, it is illegal in Hong Kong for private vehicle drivers to accept paid customers without a hire-car permit, but ride-hailing platforms such as Uber, Tada, Amap and Didi Chuxing operate such services without regulation.