Uber in Hong Kong
Uber has become one of the worlds most, if not the most, trusted brands in transportation. However, Hong Kong does not allow it to operate on their lands. Why?
For one, Uber follows the sharing economy model that Hong Kong doesn’t seem like. Other companies using the same gig economy model, like Airbnb, are banned from Hong Kong as well.
It also seems like Hong Kong does not want to change their current taxi system. Currently, the value of a taxi license is around $6.5 million HKD each, generating a lot of money for the government. Unfortunately for cab drivers, customers around the world have shown a preference for Uber and other ridesharing apps over taxis, citing better value and customer service. If Uber becomes legal, the value of taxi licenses would drastically drop. Holding onto this source of revenue might be the reason why Uber is not allowed.
This is a shame. Uber provides many locals with a way to get a little extra cash, work more flexible hours, and be their own bosses. But these people are not willing to break the law to be drivers because the government is cracking down on them with persecution and fines.
At least Hong Kong has overall great transportation including swift mini-buses, inexpensive taxis, and a punctual MTR system. The MTR is very convenient to use, especially when traveling to either our Wanchai or SheungWan locations!
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