Hong Kong mulls over taxi fare hike

$2 hike in flagfall charge endorsed.

According to a report, the Chief Executive in Council endorsed a proposal to increase the flagfall charge for taxis by $2, and the incremental charge to 10 cents per 200 metres.

The flagfall charge for the first 2km will rise from $20 to $22 for urban taxis, from $16.50 to $18.50 for New Territories taxis, and from $15 to $17 for Lantau taxis.

The incremental charge will rise from $1.50 to $1.60 for urban taxis, from $1.30 to $1.40 for New Territories taxis, and from $1.30 to $1.40 for Lantau taxis.

The amendment will be tabled in the Legislative Council on October 16 for negative vetting, and is scheduled to take effect from December 8.

The Transport & Housing Bureau said the Government has considered changes in revenue and operating costs of taxi operators, public acceptability and the fare differential between taxis and other modes of public transport.