Taxi drivers encouraged to embrace e-payments with Hong Kong start-up Dash system
Drivers offered zero-commission integrated system as pressure builds to adopt digital payments as part of new government regulations
A Hong Kong start-up has sought to overcome taxi drivers’ long-standing reluctance to embrace digital payments by launching an e-payment system offering various fare settlement options alongside a ride-hailing app.
Jason Ma Siu-cheong, 37, founded the start-up Dash in 2021. It is the latest company aiming to persuade Hong Kong’s taxi drivers to abandon their entrenched cash-only habits and catch up with counterparts in other places, such as mainland China.
Pressure is mounting on the city’s cabbies to comply with new government regulations that require taxis to offer two e-payment options, including one QR e-wallet, for passengers by April next year.
The Dash system is the first of its kind in Hong Kong.
“Many people think taxi drivers are unwilling to go digital, but that is a misconception,” Ma said.
“The truth is, a lot of them are very willing to provide these services, but they haven’t had a platform to provide the necessary support. They panic when a payment issue happens, and there’s no one to call for immediate help.”