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12h ago

Hong Kong Introduces First Comprehensive Ride-Hailing Licensing Regime

Lawmakers will review the government’s first licensing framework this quarter ahead of enforcement measures scheduled for early 2026.

FILE - Impounded vehicles meant for Uber service, center, are parked behind a police cordon line at a police station in Hong Kong, Tuesday, May 23, 2017. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung, File)
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John Lee has said the proposal must ensure quality and safety of such services, while safeguarding the livelihoods of taxi drivers. Photo: Jonathan Wong

Overview

  • The Transport and Logistics Bureau formally submitted proposals on July 15 requiring ride-hailing platforms to obtain local licences, prove financial capability and maintain Hong Kong offices before operating.
  • Eligible drivers must hold a private car licence for at least one year, have no serious traffic convictions in the past five years and complete mandatory testing and training.
  • The framework caps the number of ride-hailing vehicles, bans cars older than seven years and mandates annual inspections and insurance coverage for all vehicles.
  • Principle amendments will be debated in the Legislative Council in Q3 2025, with full legal changes and detailed implementation rules due in the first half of 2026.
  • Taxi operators welcomed formal regulation to curb unlicensed competition, while Uber warned that strict fleet caps could increase wait times, drive up fares and limit drivers’ earnings.