Taxi operators woes

General Secretary of the National Association of Taxi Operators said the taxi industry is facing several challenges and many operators could soon go out of business if there are no improvements.



Raymond Gabbidon said taxi operators are faced with several increases including the galloping gas price, motor vehicle licensing fee, and sharp increases in car parts.



He said the increases have put a strain on the industry.



He adds that the recent fare increase granted by the government cannot cover many of the expenses that taxi operators face.



Mr. Gabbidon said the taxi industry would also be severely affected by the recent changes to the import duty on used cars.



He said a large portion of cars used as taxis are used vehicles and that the changes in the import duty may force some operators to reconsider increasing their fleet or even buying another vehicle.



He said taxi operators are also very concerned about the proposed change in the age of used vehicles, which are imported.



The government is proposing to change the age of cars imported from four years to three years.



Mr. Gabbidon said very few people would be able to afford three-year-old vehicles, as they will be imported at a higher cost.