China prepares to regulate ride-hailing
China is said to be finalising a plan to regulate the country’s rapidly-growing ride-hailing market, although it remains unclear as to exactly when the regulations will come into effect. Chinese transport minister, Yang Chuantang, gave the impression that the regulations may take a while to roll out, as there are so many stakeholders, (such as ride-hail firms, taxis, and the general public), whose interests must be weighed: “These interest groups have very complicated and diverse demands and carrying out further reform will require adjustments in their interests…” Chuantang also criticised app-based ride-hailing firms such as Uber and Didi, warning them that their heavy spending has led to “unfair” competition, as they invest billions in their battle for market share.

Transport chief promises the regulations will be fair to providers as well as the taxi industry