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A new law is set to revolutionize the way taxis work in Cancun after local operators reached a landmark agreement with city officials that will allow taxi drivers to operate within the Uber app.
The effort is part of a wider push to deter crimes committed by taxi drivers as Cancun’s popularity continues to skyrocket with travelers.
Since its partial legalization earlier this year, Uber has increased its market share significantly, leading to growing competition with Cancun taxi companies. New government measures are now aiming to ease tensions, paving the way for a safer experience for millions of travelers.
As Cancun heads into the start of the busy winter season, here’s the latest on how taxis in Cancun may soon operate.
New Legal Framework To Integrate Taxis With Uber App
Cancun’s taxi drivers have been the source of a growing number of complaints from both residents and travelers. From charging exorbitant rates to unsafe driving, the list of taxi-related issues has grown over the past year even as officials introduce stricter regulations.
Meanwhile, Uber, a popular ride-sharing app, has increased its market share significantly and is now one of the go-to means for getting around Cancun and other resort hotspots.
@meccaco Pt.1 Tips for Taking a Taxi in Cancun Spring Break is here & Cancun Mexico 🇲🇽 is thriving ☀️🙌🏾 With all the craziness going on in the media about Mexico 🇲🇽 I want to make sure you have a safe and joyous journey in the place I call home. Contact me for more info on transportation, activities & Airbnb services: #offtheresort #damayanga #queencalifia #fyp #mexico #vozdelacalle ♬ original sound – Dama Yanga
Despite offering a safer transport experience for passengers, Uber has faced a number of issues with Cancun’s taxi companies, who are unwilling to compete with wealthy travelers in need of a ride. As a result, scenes of violent confrontations and intimidation have become commonplace in key points like Cancun International Airport and the Resort Zone.
But rising tensions may soon dissipate with the introduction of a new framework that would allow for Cancun’s taxi drivers to legally operate through the Uber app.
@oneminutetours Have you ever gotten ripped off by a #Cancun taxi? #mexico #oneminutetours #playadelcarmen ♬ original sound – One Minute Tours
Uber has reached a preliminary agreement with local officials that would enable users to choose whether they want to request a private vehicle or a taxi. In the near future, the ride-sharing company is expected to launch a new Uber Go option, allowing users to arrange a taxi driver through the app.
According to officials, the goal of the new framework is to eliminate rising friction between taxi companies and Uber drivers, especially in critical areas like Cancun airport, where thousands of travelers use taxi services each day to reach the city’s resort area.
@girlwhomadechurrowaffles 🏝️Do Not Pay Those Excessive Taxi Prices 🚖 #cancun #travel #vacation #cancuntaxis #uber #taxis #cancunairport #traveltips #adobus #hotelzone ♬ La Cumbia Folklorica – Hermanos Flores
According to Águeda Esperilla, a spokesperson for the ride-sharing app, the new measure is expected to enter into force soon. “We hope that ongoing negotiations will progress smoothly for both sides, and we believe in the importance of allowing users to choose their preferred driver,” the spokesperson said in a media interview.
@danstravelguide Disputes between local taxi drivers and ride hailing apps like Uber have caused tension in the resort coast of Cancun. A new court order stated that ride hailong apps do not need to obtain a transportation license while taxi drivers still do. This has led to attacks and violence. Be aware of the situation if you have plans to visit! #cancun #mexico #travelmexico #travelnews #travelguide #cancunvacation #traveltok ♬ Suspense, horror, piano and music box – takaya
Meanwhile, authorities are making notable progress with the introduction of a new panic button, which may soon become available to users of the ride-sharing app as well as Uber drivers. When activated, the emergency button will send out a notification to law enforcement, notifying officials of any wrongdoing.
With Cancun’s travel numbers expected to skyrocket this year, a growing number of visitors are opting to user Uber. While taxis have traditionally been the predominant means of transportation for travelers in Cancun, cases of fraud have skyrocketed.
@audrabear This is quite the show #cancun #cancunmexico #cancunairport #uber #tulum #traffic #mexico ♬ original sound – Audra Bear
The launching of the Maya Train in late December this year will further boost the number of alternatives for reaching hotspots like Playa del Carmen or Tulum. For now, however, taxis and Uber are the fastest way to reach Cancun’s Resort Zone.
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