Hong Kong's taxi industry rallied outside the Transport Department's West Kowloon Government Offices at 10 am today (May 9), urging immediate legislative amendments to close legal loopholes and combat unlicensed "white plate" vehicles. Protesters called for stricter enforcement against ride-hailing platforms facilitating illegal operations, aiming to safeguard industry rights and ensure the sustainable development of Hong Kong's transport sector.
The protest follows a near-strike in February this year, when taxi drivers threatened action over similar grievances. Chow Kwok-keung, a former chairman of the Hong Kong Taxi and Public Light Bus Association, stated that the industry faces severe challenges. "Over the past two months, multiple ride-hailing platforms have exploited legal gray areas to allow unlicensed vehicles to operate," he said. "This has slashed incomes for 40,000 families reliant on taxi drivers' earnings, pushing many to the brink of financial collapse. We need urgent legislation to resolve this crisis."
Service Reforms Amid Public Criticism
Chow acknowledged public dissatisfaction with taxi services, pledging industry efforts to improve quality. "Regulations vary globally-not all regions are suited for unlicensed ride-hailing models. While we understand passengers' frustrations, we are committed to raising standards," he said. He emphasized that citizens should assert their rights when harmed by illegal operators. "By raising this issue publicly, we seek tangible change. Until legislation is enacted, society must unite to curb illegal activities and protect public interests."
Chow criticized ride-hailing platforms for deploying "predatory pricing tactics" and urged the government to regulate fare mechanisms. Industry data reveals that taxi drivers' incomes have plummeted due to illegal competition, with 75% of taxi owners now grappling with debt liabilities.
Calls for Accountability and Safety Measures
To Sun-tong, vice director of the taxi branch of the Motor Transport Workers General Union, brandished a sign reading "Taxi Drivers Are Angry" and warned of the risks posed by unlicensed vehicles. "If a white plate car causes an accident, the consequences could be dire. We urge the government to listen to us," he said. To also endorse installing in-taxi cameras to enhance accountability and reduce passenger complaints.
Other industry representatives warned that illegal ride-hailing threatens Hong Kong's rule of law and transport ecosystem. "Without swift government action, the problem will escalate," one speaker asserted. They called on the media and the public to spotlight the issue, pressuring authorities to restore fair competition.
Background and Legislative Delay
The push to regulate white plate vehicles has languished for years, with stakeholders accusing the government of inaction. Protesters argue that platforms like Uber operate in a legal vacuum, undermining licensed taxis while evading insurance, safety, and tax obligations. Meanwhile, the Transport Department maintains that existing laws already prohibit illegal ride-hailing, though enforcement remains inconsistent.
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