Uber is a brilliant company that is praised as often as criticised. In Taiwan the current plan is to have Uber apps removed from the Apple and Google Play Stores moving forward. This is a rather unusual decision, although the government has been increasing the pressure against this ride-hailing firm. The reason is simple: Uber is in a legal dispute with the local government.
Curtain Call For Uber In Taiwan?
One of the reasons why platforms such as Uber are popular is because of their accessibility. With mobile apps available across every major App Store, it is increasingly easy for consumers to explore what Uber has to offer. That situation, however, may change in Taiwan, as the government is not keen on the ride-sharing principle, to begin with.
According to Taiwanese government officials, the way Uber represents its services is misleading. The company presents itself as an Internet-based technology platform, even though they are clearly in the ride-sharing business. As a result of this dispute, Uber has been forced to pay back taxes, which they have not done as yet.
Rather than waiting for the situation to resolve amicably, the Taiwanese government is taking matters into their own hands. By requesting to have Uber apps removed from mobile app stores, they make their stance very clear. This request also means that the UberEATS app, which was only launched yesterday morning, would have to be removed.
For now, it remains anyone’s guess as to whether or not this request will be honored by Apple or Google. Additionally, the possible repercussion remains unclear, as the Uber app would remain available through other means. Moreover, those who have already installed the app will not be hindered in using the services, either.
Looking over the Google Play Store terms of service, the company clearly states how they will not facilitate the offering of illegal services in particular regions. Uber is not yet deemed to be illegal in Taiwan, even though their way of advertising services raises a lot of questions. Moreover, their reluctance to pay back taxes will not help their case either.
The battle between the Taiwanese government and Uber has been ongoing for quite some time now. Earlier this year, officials penalized UberEATS by revoking motorcycle vehicle licenses for two to six months. Taiwan is not the only country fighting Uber, though, as quite a few Asian countries have issues with the services rendered.
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