Hong Kong to require taxis to install GPS, e-payment and camera systems in next 2 years

Transport and Logistics Bureau says it aims for all cabs to have e-payment options by end of 2025, and surveillance systems a year later

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Transport authorities hope the upgrades can boost the industry’s service quality. Photo: May Tse

Published: 1:05pm, 9 Dec 2024Updated: 9:08am, 11 Dec 2024

Hong Kong taxi drivers will be required to install electronic payment and navigation systems, dashcams and on-board surveillance cameras over the next two years under efforts to improve service quality, transport authorities have said.

In a paper submitted to the Legislative Council on Monday, the Transport and Logistics Bureau said it aimed to require all taxis to install electronic payment options by the end of 2025 and have the necessary surveillance systems one year later.

“In the long term, requiring all taxis to install in-car cameras, dashcams and global positioning systems [GPS], as well as requiring all taxi drivers to provide electronic payment options, will help enhance the overall quality and image of taxi services,” it said.

“This will strengthen passengers’ confidence in taxi services, thereby gradually improving the industry’s development prospects.”

The bureau said it would submit a legislative amendment in mid-2025 that required all taxis to provide at least two forms of electronic payment systems.

“Although some taxi drivers currently offer electronic payment options, many taxis still only accept cash, which can be very inconvenient for passengers, especially tourists,” it said.