In response to growing grievances from taxi drivers over steep affiliation fees, Taiwan’s Ministry of Transportation and Communications has put forward a set of new regulations designed to shield independent drivers from these financial burdens. Concerns have been raised by vehicle owners who claim that to secure a taxi operating license, they must pay exorbitant fees to taxi companies, with the highest reported instance occurring in Taichung, where drivers faced charges as high as NT$350,000.
The proposed regulatory changes aim to address these issues by prohibiting taxi companies from imposing unauthorized charges not outlined in official contracts or sanctioned by authorities. Additionally, these companies would be restricted from compelling drivers to buy vehicles from certain dealers or to secure loans and insurance through specified financial institutions, which could further inflate costs for the drivers.
To enhance transparency and ensure fairness, the new rules mandate that taxi companies obtain formal approval for their affiliation fee structures and make these details accessible on their websites. The regulations also grant authorities the power to intervene, ordering companies to cease improper fee collections and to reimburse drivers for any excessive charges. Furthermore, both parties—drivers and taxi companies—would be required to maintain comprehensive records of contracts, receipts, and other related documents for potential inspections.
Another significant change proposed is the reduction of the minimum period before an unused taxi quota can be reassigned, shortening it from three years to one year, with the possibility of extending it by another year. This adjustment is expected to streamline the process and make it more efficient for drivers. The new regulations are slated to come into effect in August, with provisions for penalties including fines up to NT$90,000, partial suspension of operations, or even the revocation of licenses for companies found in violation of these rules.