The new rules will reduce the number of VTC licences by 66%, and Uber and Cabify will only be able to operate on interurban routes. Parliament has presented a bill that drastically reduces the scope of vehicle-hailing platforms (VTC) such as Uber, Cabify and Bolt. This initiative, supported by the main parties, limits these services to interurban journeys with prior booking and reduces the number of licences in force in the capital by two thirds. In this way, the regional executive aims to resolve the long-standing conflict between the taxi and VTC sectors.
The text establishes that VTCs will not be able to operate in urban transport and defines the conditions that limit their use: reservations must be made at least two hours in advance and trips must have a minimum duration of one hour. In addition, it proposes specific exceptions, such as the Mobile World Congress, and a gradual implementation schedule until 2026. This would mean a reduction in the number of licences in force from 900 to around 300.
New changes to taxi and VTC regulations
The initiative is not limited to VTCs, but also tightens the conditions for taxis. Among the new features is the requirement to prove B1 level Catalan to obtain a licence, which some groups consider insufficient and which may spark debate in parliament. The proposal aims to establish a stricter framework for the transport sector, which could have significant consequences for taxi regulations.
The system of penalties for charging unauthorised fares in the transport sector is being strengthened.
All passenger transport vehicles, including taxis and VTCs, must be equipped with geolocation systems to ensure compliance with the standard and strengthen administrative control. According to the proponents, the model aims at “orderly coexistence”, with taxis maintaining their central role in urban mobility and VTCs being limited to a secondary role.
In this context, Parliament considers that the transition will be ‘smooth’ thanks to the gradual introduction and respect for licences in force until the end of their validity period. The new rules are expected to come into full effect in 2026.
Reaction of the VTC sector to the restrictions
VTC organisations and companies have expressed their strong disagreement. The employers’ association Unauto VTC has described the proposal as ‘anti-social’ and ‘contrary to the public interest’, warning that this measure could lead to the closure of many companies and the loss of thousands of jobs.