Ride-hailing platform licence applications closes at noon

Applications for online ride-hailing platform licences closed at noon today, with the Transport Department stating it received eight applications.

Several ride-hailing platforms submitted their applications at the West Kowloon Government Offices this morning, including DiDi Hong Kong, and

Singapore's TADA, while Uber had submitted its application earlier.

Under government regulations, platforms, drivers, and vehicles must all hold licences.

Applicant companies are required to be registered in Hong Kong with a minimum capital of 50 million Hong Kong dollars and operational experience.

The department stated earlier the first batch of licences would be issued as early as late next month, with no limit at this stage.

Each licence was valid for up to five years, with an annual fee of 1.2 million Hong Kong dollars.