Hong Kong sets 10,000 vehicle cap for ride-hailing permits

Hong Kong authorities have set a cap of 10,000 vehicles for ride-hailing service permits, marking a key step in their long-running effort to establish a regulatory framework, with applicants who have owned a private car for a certain period likely to be given priority.

The news drew criticism from both ride-hailing giant Uber and the taxi trade.

Uber Hong Kong warned that more than 20,000 people would lose a flexible earning opportunity, adding that a lottery-like quota allocation would put the livelihoods of drivers at risk.

A taxi industry representative argued that the quota was set too high and would adversely affect the sector.

In a paper submitted to the Legislative Council on Tuesday, the Transport and Logistics Bureau said the 10,000-vehicle cap was a cautious and appropriate approach to maintaining service standards while balancing road capacity and the broader transport ecosystem.

"After holistically considering the views from various sectors, the travel needs of passengers, the actual capacity of online ride-hailing services, as well as local conditions and industry development, authorities propose setting the upper limit for the number of vehicle permits at 10,000 at this stage," the bureau said.