BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Ride-hailing company Uber has sought to reassure taxi operators in Barbados amid concerns that its operations are affecting the livelihoods of traditional drivers and altering the local transportation market.
The company, which began operating here in October last year, said its focus in Barbados has been to work with licensed taxi operators and provide technology that supports residents, visitors and the tourism sector.
Its comments on Friday came in a statement to Barbados TODAY, a day after the online newspaper published a report in which taxi operators alleged that Uber’s growing presence at major tourism hubs, including west coast hotels and the Grantley Adams International Airport, was affecting their income and market share.
“Since the app was made available in Barbados, Uber’s focus has been to work with licensed local taxi drivers to bring technology to the transportation sector in a way that supports residents, visitors, and the broader tourism economy,” the company said.
Uber said that only licensed and authorised taxi drivers are permitted to provide services through its platform in Barbados.
“Uber Taxi, the only option available through the app in Barbados, connects riders exclusively with licensed and authorised taxi drivers,” it said.
Some drivers have also alleged that operators using the Uber platform are securing a disproportionate share of passenger trips.
Uber rejected suggestions that it is engaging in fare undercutting, stating that fares offered through the platform are based on rates established by the Barbados Transport Authority.
“Its fares follow the official rates established by the Transport Authority,” the company said.
Uber also said the platform is open to any licensed taxi operator wishing to participate and benefit from additional business opportunities.
“The platform is open to any licensed taxi driver in Barbados who wishes to join and access additional earning opportunities through technology,” it added.
Some operators also expressed concern about Uber’s commission structure and the impact of payments to the multinational company on foreign exchange outflows from Barbados. However, the company did not directly address those concerns in its statement.
