Uber to buy cab-ordering platform FlyTaxi ahead of ride-hailing regulation
Uber buys FlyTaxi to strengthen taxi services as Hong Kong prepares ride-hailing rules.
Uber announced it is acquiring Hong Kong-based online cab-hailing platform FlyTaxi to expand its taxi services, just months before the city implements a regulatory regime for ride-hailing services later this year. According to a statement on Friday, the acquisition is part of Uber's commitment to help grow the taxi industry and provide “greater economic opportunities” for drivers. Estyn Chung, general manager of Uber Hong Kong, said, “By combining FlyTaxi’s local expertise with Uber’s technology, we are empowering drivers to grow their businesses and continuing to give riders the exceptional experience they expect.” The terms of the deal were not disclosed.
FlyTaxi, founded by Simon Siu in 2013, was one of the first online ride-hailing platforms in Hong Kong and remains widely used across the city. Siu called the acquisition a “proud milestone” that will allow FlyTaxi to leverage global technology to keep the local taxi industry innovative. Uber emphasized that FlyTaxi will continue to operate as normal, and no changes are expected for drivers or riders using either app. The move positions Uber to better navigate the upcoming regulatory landscape while strengthening its partnership with Hong Kong's taxi ecosystem.
- Uber acquires FlyTaxi, a major Hong Kong taxi-hailing app founded in 2013, to expand local taxi services.
- The acquisition comes ahead of Hong Kong's new ride-hailing regulatory regime expected later this year.
- FlyTaxi will continue to operate independently; no immediate changes for drivers or riders.
Why It Matters
Uber's pre-regulatory acquisition of FlyTaxi signals a strategic push to consolidate local taxi platforms and comply with upcoming rules.