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New | Uber exec hopes for 'smart regulation' of Hong Kong sharing economy following police raid

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Taxi-and-car-hailing app Uber was raided by Hong Kong police amid claims drivers were unlicensed and lacked proper insurance. Photo: Edward Wong
George ChenandDanny Lee
Uber is keen to work with the Hong Kong government to develop "smart regulations" to fit with people's needs in the digital era as the embattled taxi-hailing app rallied public support in the wake of a raid by police on its offices in the city.

Speaking to the South China Morning Post, Uber north Asia general manager Sam Gellman said the firm – one of the fastest growing start-ups in the world, valued at over US$50 billion – was ready to sit down with the government anytime to talk and work through the regulatory process.

“Innovation and technology across all sectors can improve Hong Kong’s efficiency, liveability, and competitiveness – and how we enable and foster that is an important factor for any dynamic city to discuss,” said Gellman, who is responsible for Uber’s expansion in the region and officially launched the service in Hong Kong last year.

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“A smart city must have smart regulations fit for a digital age, and we look forward to working closely with regulators towards developing a regulatory approach that enables more choice and innovation while putting the safety and interests of riders and drivers first."

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More than 50,000 people have signed an online petition supporting the car-hailing app in the wake of a police crackdown that saw seven Uber drivers arrested in a sting operation for not possessing correct permits. The firm's offices were also raided and three staffers detained.
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