Uber Hong Kong acquires HKTaxi

Uber is acquiring Hong Kong e-hail startup HKTaxi, in a move that will expand earnings opportunities for taxi drivers and bring greater convenience to riders. According to Uber Hong Kong, this partnership brings together HKTaxi's engineering strength and local knowledge with Uber’s global R&D capabilities and operational expertise. Uber first launched in Hong Kong in 2014.

It will accelerate growth in the taxi industry in Hong Kong, and underscores the city’s role as a regional startup and mobility hub. HKTaxi operates an app that connects taxi drivers with people wanting a ride. Locally built, it has been widely adopted by drivers and riders since its launch eight years ago. It includes booking, dispatch, and taxi fare e-payment capabilities.

Today’s partnership will not lead to any immediate changes for drivers and riders using the HKTaxi or the Uber app. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Kay Lui, co-founder of HKTaxi said, “We are proud of our hard work in bringing innovation and better service to taxi drivers and riders across Hong Kong. Today’s deal allows us to continue that mission with even greater impact. Combining our local know-how and startup spirit with Uber’s global experience will build a better taxi industry for all drivers, riders and industry participants.”

Estyn Chung, general manager of Uber Hong Kong said, “I am excited to welcome Lui and Maff and the entire HKTaxi team to the Uber Hong Kong team, and look forward to jointly driving the adoption of e-hailing in the city. This is a new phase of HKTaxi’s growth, and it is an honour to partner with them in bringing greater innovation and growth to the taxi industry. When people think of Uber they increasingly think of taxis, and this deal only emphasises the importance we place in the sector, in both Hong Kong and around the world.”