Agreement reached to raise fares of ride-hailing apps

AMMAN — An agreement has been reached to set pricing limits for ride-hailing apps by increasing the fare of each ride by 20 per cent, according to the Taxi Drivers Association.

“Having a pricing strategy and price differences is essential, as it revitalises the sector,” Taxi Drivers Association Vice President Ahmad Judu told The Jordan Times on Monday.

Judu expressed his gratitude towards the Land Transport Regulatory Commission and the Ministry of Transport for their efforts and cooperation, adding that the association continues to call for raising the prices of ride-hailing app fares by 30 per cent, in line with an agreement reached with former prime minister Hani Mulki back in 2018.

The new agreement will be implemented at the beginning of March, said Judu, noting that the association accepted the 20-per cent price increase for now, taking into consideration the current economic conditions. However, he said, they are waiting to receive their full demands in the near future.

“We accepted the 20 per cent price increase as long as our demands are met eventually,” the vice president said.

Among the nine demands made by yellow taxi drivers is the cancellation of ride-hailing applications’ promo codes, a demand that has not yet been met, even though the prices will be raised under the new regulation, Judu said.

“Most people have started using ride-hailing cars, as they provide a short waiting time. I hope this new regulation will, at least, help us cover the daily taxi rent and fuel costs,” a taxi driver who preferred to remain unnamed told The Jordan Times on Monday.

The association has renewed its earlier demands aimed at supporting the viability of the sector, as well as creating a positive impact on the incomes of yellow taxi drivers, according to Judu.