Several ride-hailing firms express interest in Hong Kong licences: minister

Several ride-hailing firms have expressed interest in operating the long-awaited online platforms in Hong Kong, just one day after the government opened licence applications setting out nine requirements, the transport chief has revealed.

Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Saturday that two to three firms had expressed interest in operating ride-hailing service platforms, emphasising that operators were capable of meeting the requirements.

“Just one day after our announcement, so far there are at least two to three platform operators who have expressed interest in running the ride-hailing services. I hope they can apply soon,” she told a radio programme.

“We will hold a briefing session in mid-September to communicate directly with interested applicants. We expect the first batch of applicants could be approved in early December.”

Her bureau announced nine key requirements on Friday for applying for ride-hailing services under a new regulatory regime, with applications for operating licences closing on October 30.

Among the nine conditions, operators must have a proven track record of providing lawful services in cities with populations of more than 7.5 million, while handling over 100,000 daily orders in at least two locations.