LettersTaxis and Uber can both be good for Hong Kong – there is no need for a monopoly

I am writing in response to the article, “Taxi alliance to launch ride-hailing app, to go head to head with Uber” (March 6).

Both taxis and Uber have their distinct strengths. Taxis offer a convenient service and have a history in Hong Kong going back to the 1940s. More recently, Uber, a foreign company, has captured some market share with its comprehensive ride-hailing app and also created new job opportunities.

Benign competition between Uber and the taxi service may have a positive effect on Hong Kong’s transport system. Both taxis and Uber can improve through comparison and learning from one another, bettering their service quality with respect to price, safety and drivers’ attitudes. A monopoly in the transport industry will only lead to a decline in service quality.