Govt proposes requiring taxis to install in-vehicle video cameras and provide electronic payment options

The quality of taxi services has aroused great concern in recent years. After thorough research and consultation with the taxi industry, the government submitted documents to the Legislative Council's Panel on Transport, proposing amendments to relevant legislation. These amendments would require all taxis to install in-vehicle video cameras, dashcams, and global positioning systems and mandate that all taxi drivers provide electronic payment options.

The government plans to draft the relevant legislative amendment texts in the coming months, aiming to submit the proposed amendments to the Legislative Council in the second quarter of 2025.

The government believes that installing recording systems in taxis will help combat inappropriate behavior by taxi drivers, enhance driving safety, and protect the rights of both drivers and passengers in case of disputes.

The government tends not to require all taxis to install the same specified equipment model. The Transport Department will specify the requirements for the three types of recording systems separately, allowing suppliers in the market to apply for approval for devices that meet these specifications. Taxi owners can choose and install devices that the Transport Department has approved.

The Transport Department will also hire service contractors to set up and maintain a central platform that must be compatible with the audio and video recordings and data uploaded from the approved devices.

Additionally, to further promote the adoption of electronic payments in taxis, the government proposes requiring all taxi drivers to provide electronic payment options for passengers to pay their fares. The authorities suggest referencing the practices of taxi fleets and requiring drivers to offer at least two electronic payment options (including QR code and non-QR code payment methods).

Related News:

Taxis prepared for visitors as cruise Spectrum of the Seas arrives at HK

Tai Lam Tunnel toll plan announced: HK$28 for taxis, maximum HK$45 for private cars