The Chamber of Skilled Trades and Crafts has criticised the government’s plan to liberalise Luxembourg’s taxi laws, which, among other things, includes the abolition of geographical constraints, compulsory health checks and allows private ride-hailing.
Especially now in a period of crisis the sector has seen a drastic decline in customers and loss of perspective. Reshuffling the sector now and opening it up to foreign competition could not come at a worse time, according to the Chamber’s representatives.
There are elements to the revised law that are welcomed, however, which includes bringing down sky-high prices and reducing waiting times. But no longer placing a cap on the number of taxi licenses and getting rid of geographical zones remain problematic issues. These wouldn’t limit competition, but work more as a control mechanism, say the representatives.
The Chamber of Skilled Trades and Crafts further demands that laws surrounding ride-hailing apps must be better defined. It would be the first time such a law would come into force here. Furthermore, the proposed age limit of 70 for drivers would be too strict. Environmental standards are also not welcomed. To conclude, then, laws must remain balanced, says the Chamber.
