Taiwan is poised to implement new regulations designed to safeguard independent taxi drivers from being burdened by excessive fees charged by taxi companies. This initiative by the Ministry of Transportation and Communications comes in response to multiple grievances from vehicle owners about steep affiliation fees needed to access taxi operating licenses. In particular, drivers in Taichung reported the highest fees, reaching as much as NT$350,000.
The proposed regulations will strictly prohibit taxi companies from imposing unauthorized fees that lack official approval or are not outlined in contracts. These companies would also be restricted from compelling drivers to purchase vehicles from certain dealers or from mandating loans and insurance through specified financial institutions. To ensure compliance, taxi companies would need to obtain authorization for any affiliation fee standards and make this information publicly available on their websites.
Additionally, the new rules would empower authorities to demand companies cease inappropriate fee collections and reimburse drivers for any overcharges. Both drivers and taxi companies would be required to maintain records of contracts, receipts, and other transactions to enhance transparency and allow for inspections.
The proposal also addresses the reassignment of unused taxi quotas, reducing the minimum period from three years to one year, with a potential extension of another year. These measures are slated to be enforced beginning in August.
Companies that violate these regulations could face penalties, including fines up to NT$90,000, partial suspension of their operations, or, in more severe cases, the revocation of their operating licenses. This regulatory overhaul is aimed at creating a fairer operating environment for taxi drivers throughout Taiwan.