A new requirement for taxi drivers to offer at least two forms of electronic payment options took effect on Wednesday, a move Transport Commissioner Winnie Tse said would enhance the industry’s image, provide greater convenience and attract more residents and tourists to use taxis.

On the first day of implementation, Tse visited a taxi stand in Tsuen Wan to observe how drivers were adapting, in which she noted that most drivers had already installed the necessary electronic payment devices and were operating them smoothly.

With more payment options now available, the commissioner said that the payment process had become noticeably more convenient, a development she believes would encourage more people to choose taxis for their travels.

"There are about 46,000 taxi drivers who are active in the trade and at the same time, there are more than 47,000 taxi drivers who have already set up their Octopus accounts that are capable to receive different modes of e-payment," she said.

"The figures are rather encouraging."

She urged drivers who have not yet registered for electronic payment to do so as soon as possible, adding that the Transport Department had set up dedicated service counters to offer support and guidance.

"We have designated service counters for taxi drivers set up in three government carparks, in Sheung Wan, Kwai Fong and Tsuen Wan," she said, noting that the counters would remain open until Saturday.

Tse also said that many passengers have reported finding electronic payments convenient and straightforward, which enhances their overall taxi experience.

Drivers echoed similar sentiments, with a taxi driver surnamed Choy saying that e-payment options have added considerable convenience to his work, helping to speed up transactions and allowing him to complete more trips.

"When we start our shift, we have to prepare a lot of change and sometimes that becomes difficult when customers give large bills," he said.

"I also don't feel comfortable leaving all my cash in the taxi when I need to go the bathroom. Now that we have e-payment options, it has become a lot more convenient because the transaction is done with just a tap."

Another driver surnamed Chan said the new system had genuinely improved the industry’s image, and the added convenience benefits both locals and visitors.

Still, some drivers noted that adjustments are still underway, with one saying that some drivers needed more time to get used to the new system, and that occasional network issues could affect payment processing.

Another driver mentioned he had not seen a major change in his business, adding that most of his customers still prefer to pay with cash.

Passengers, however, highlighted the noticeable improvements in their experience.

"Sometimes I have a lot of belongings with me so just paying electronically has sped up the process a lot," said a passenger surnamed Hong.

"If the taxi service is good, I can easily add a tip too. Some platforms even let me earn reward points or discounts, which is a nice bonus compared with cash."



Edited by Tony Sabine