Hong Kong is taking a major step forward in regulating online ride-hailing services with the SAR government set to submit a planned legislation framework to lawmakers on Tuesday afternoon.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said ahead of an Executive Council meeting on Tuesday he recognized the complexity of setting up a regulatory framework for ride-hailing services, but stressed that the matter shouldn’t be delayed further.

The proposed framework, drafted by the Transport and Logistics Bureau, will establish service standards and obligations for online hailing platforms to ensure effective management and operational safety. It’ll include specific requirements for vehicles, drivers’ qualifications and insurance.

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Lee said while there’re diverse views among the community on the issue, there’s a clear consensus on the need for legislation on the emerging business mode. On the other hand, the quality of taxi services has also failed to meet public expectations.

The authorities will also introduce regulations for taxis using online ride-hailing services to enhance efficiency and extend the taxi trade’s business scope, promote the coexistence of private cars undertaking hailing services and taxis, and upgrade the overall quality of point-to-point transportation services.

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Lee said the regulatory framework can solve the problems with consensus before proceeding to handle other technique matters.

Contact the writer at atlasshao@chinadailyhk.com