Uber suspends service in Macau again
Ride sharing platform Uber is pulling out of Asia’s gambling hub Macau – for the second time.
Uber has faced a long, drawn out battle with authorities to legitimise the service.
Authorities have imposed hefty fines on drivers since it first began operations in October 2015.
More than 300 drivers have been hit with fines, it said.
Uber has a groundswell of support among local residents with more than 20,000 signatures on a petition asking for it to to stay when it announced a suspension of service the first time a year ago.
It even has support from some lawmakers who argue the government’s refusal to regulate ride sharing is down to vested interests and strong arm tactics by the influential taxi industry.
"The government has never intended to let Uber operate legally, even though Uber wanted to be properly regulated. What a shame," Macau lawmaker Au Kam-san said.
He said ordinary taxi drivers often refuse to carry locals.
Uber says an official suspension of service will hopefully lead to a ‘constructive dialogue’ and open the door for it to return legally.
"This was not an easy decision, but was made with the best interests of Macau in mind. We hope the decision will bring positive changes," it said in a statement on its website.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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