HKTaxi, which made history as Hong Kong’s first ride-hailing app, has announced that it will suspend its services later this year. In a statement released on Monday, it was revealed that the platform will no longer be available from April 1, 2025. Users have been asked to change over to its parent app Uber, and will lose access to their accounts from February 3. 

What is HKTaxi?

HKTaxi started in 2013 and allowed passengers to book cabs at metered fares, which they could pay for using cash, Octopus cards, or e-payment alternatives like credit cards. Uber entered the Hong Kong market in 2014 and acquired HKTaxi in 2021. Both platforms later collaborated to launch the “metered fare” option on Uber — a selection that will continue to be provided even after April 1, along with an upfront 15% discount feature.

The platform has already begun deactivating accounts — a process that will continue till March 31. Customer support on their hotline and WhatsApp channel will remain in operation until April 30. While users cannot get refunds their Taxi Dollars, they can either use them before their accounts are suspended or get Uber cash equivalent to their unused Dollars. Customers who register as new Uber users will get HK$100 off for their first five Uber trips.

Other ride-hailing apps in Hong Kong

Ride-hailing services are a popular option in Hong Kong, where passengers often complain about cab drivers overcharging and refusing trips. Uber, Beijing-headquarted DiDi, and Singapore-based Tada are among the handful of taxi-booking services available in the city. However, they operate in a grey area due to a lack of regulation. Moreover, private vehicle drivers without hire-car permits are also prohibited from accepting passengers. However, the government is considering measures to regulate online hailing services.

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From the Middle East to the Far East and a couple of places in between, Anjali has lived in no fewer than seven cities in Asia, and has travelled extensively in the region. She worked as a lifestyle journalist in India before coming to Hong Kong, where her favourite thing to do is island-hopping with her daughter. You can check out her musings on motherhood, courtesy her Instagram profile.