Taxi fleet preparation on track, but threshold adjustments premature: Transport Chief

Transport Secretary Mable Chan has dismissed speculation about lowering the 60 percent operational threshold for new taxi fleets. She emphasized that it is too early to discuss such changes, as five fleets are preparing to launch services by July.

Speaking on an RTHK program, Chan confirmed that all fleets must deploy at least 60 percent of their committed taxis – a benchmark set after extensive consultation with stakeholders.

She noted that companies had conducted thorough cost analyses before committing to this requirement. Many are adopting innovative recruitment strategies to attract drivers comfortable with digital bookings.

Chan stated that the authorities remain flexible in supporting fleets through administrative measures, potentially including granting early access to premium pick-up/drop-off zones at malls and attractions before official launches.

Chan revealed her firsthand experience testing a fleet service, praising a driver's punctuality – arriving 10 minutes early – and vehicles equipped with mandatory GPS, payment, and monitoring systems.

While acknowledging the fleets' substantial investments – including new electric vehicle purchases and driver recruitment campaigns – Chan declined to speculate about consequences for operators missing deadlines.

She also confirmed progress on a unified booking platform being developed with third-party tech partners, targeting a synchronized launch with fleet operations.