Taxi operators are urging the government to do more to stamp out unlicensed passenger vans, warning that the illegal competition is hurting the struggling trade.
The concerns are supported by a Polytechnic University study that found the average amount of time taxis spend waiting for customers has roughly doubled in urban areas and the New Territories over the past four years.
Unlicensed passenger services were found to be doing brisk business at the airport, largely at the expense of taxis.
The report recommended that only front passenger seats be installed in these types of vans and owners be required to clearly spell out the words 'goods carriage' when advertising their services to limit their scope.
Trade representatives said they planned to submit the findings to the government for further action.
'It's not fair that these vans are eating into our income and affecting our business, especially at the airport,' said Hong Kong Taxi and Public Light Bus Association chairman Charles Tran Chau. 'If vans stick to carrying goods and cargo, and we stick to carrying passengers, there will be no conflict.'
