Hong Kong’s current economic environment is challenging , but we are optimistic that the city can get back on track if we are all heading in the right direction. Hong Kong, an extraordinary city, has long been a magnet for international businesses. That’s why we chose it as one of our first destinations in Asia. Since we arrived in 2014, we have facilitated millions of trips for hardworking Hongkongers and international visitors alike. Just as importantly, we have created jobs and earning opportunities for thousands of drivers, delivery partners, restaurant partners and associated businesses. Hongkongers know and love Uber for ride-sharing and Uber Eats. But this is just the start. We are already thinking about the next phase of what urban mobility means in Hong Kong and, beyond that, how to address the evolving needs of the city. Uber hails success of tie-up with Hong Kong taxi firms as trip requests soar But there are roadblocks to this vision. Despite its global outlook and long history of innovation, Hong Kong has not updated its transport rules to support ride-sharing. Without a modern regulatory framework in which businesses like Uber can operate, we will be unable to make the investments needed to create more jobs for Hong Kong. It is now more important than ever that the government encourages investment and innovation, and helps give Hongkongers more opportunities to work and earn. I believe this is where Uber can step up and play a stronger role. We are ready to make new investments, change the way we move, and partner with the government to let people tap into the sharing economy. Uber is an operating system for everyday life, and ride-sharing is just the beginning of the journey. We have invested heavily in new technologies and offerings – from pooling and partnering with transit companies, to delivery technology and micro-mobility. All these innovations have one thing in common: they rely on Uber’s important ride-sharing network as the backbone of their operations. We want to bring in more of our innovations to better the city, and we have the experience – and bold plans – to make Hong Kong’s “smart city” ambitions a reality. For us, this starts with regulation. Estyn Chung, general manager, Uber Hong Kong
