Exclusive | Uber’s outsized American ego a problem says Hong Kong transport minister as US Consulate gets involved
Frank Chan Fan makes remarks in closed-door meeting as tensions between US firm and city’s taxi industry show little signs of easing
The US Consulate in Hong Kong has reached out to the city’s taxi drivers to ease tensions with Uber, while the transport minister slammed the US ride-hailing firm for its “big ego”, the Post has learned.
There was immediate resistance from industry leaders, who said they would continue to oppose Uber unless it was willing to end its partnerships with private car owners.
The behind-the-scenes lobbying from US diplomats came as Secretary for Transport and Housing Frank Chan Fan accused Uber of trying to set the rules in a closed-door meeting with the innovation and technology sector last month.
“Uber has a big Americanism ego – I am the boss, and I am the rule setter who can set the rules of the game I play. Because of this mindset, Uber has clashed with the legal and cultural systems of many places in the world,” Chan told about 100 stakeholders in a private speech, a recording of which was obtained by the Post.
Chan made the remarks as Uber continued its uphill battle to make headway in a city where ride-sharing is illegal. Disgruntled taxi drivers have stepped up their war against the US firm for depriving them of business, with go-slow protests and threats of taking more drastic action to “defend” their rights.