Mable Chan added there will be oversight to ensure fleet operators keep their rates to a reasonable level, while authorities will roll out specific measures to help them pick up passengers.
Speaking on a Commercial Radio programme on Sunday, Chan explained that people who flag down a fleet taxi on the street only have to pay the normal rate. For an urban cab, that means a base fare of HK$29 plus the incremental charge.
But when they book a ride online or over the phone, both sides are allowed to negotiate a fixed fare similar to a “charter” arrangement, she added. Alternatively, passengers can still opt for the meter rate, plus a booking fee.
Asked if the fixed fare can be set below the meter rate, Chan called for “caution”, but it is ultimately a business decision by the operators. She also stressed that regulatory supervision will be in place to ensure that fares remain reasonable and are not set excessively high.
Additionally, Chan noted that the Transport Department has earmarked 13 dedicated pick-up points for fleet taxis. Nine of these spots are ready for use, and they can mostly be found a boundary control points, as well as the airport, the high-speed rail station and the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.
Regarding service quality, the transport minister noted that passengers who are not happy with the service can rate their drivers on the online ride-hailing platform. Fleet managers are required to monitor such feedback.
“Technology will also be used with in-vehicle monitoring systems checking whether drivers are driving safely and whether there are any service problems,” she said.
She also said that taxi fleets are encouraged to devise strategies and find ways to serve different needs in the market, such as passengers with disabilities and those with luggage.
