Uber defends B’dos model as taxis raise earnings, competition concerns

Global ride-hailing giant Uber has moved to reassure taxi drivers amid mounting claims that it is undercutting livelihoods, extracting foreign exchange, and reshaping the island’s transport economy.

In a statement to Barbados TODAY, Uber emphasised that the platform is designed to complement, rather than displace, the existing local industry by partnering strictly with traditional, licensed professionals.

“Since the app was made available in Barbados, Uber’s focus has been to work with licensed local taxi drivers to bring technology to the transportation sector in a way that supports residents, visitors, and the broader tourism economy,” the company said.

Responding to allegations of aggressive market encroachment and the disruption of established hotel and airport franchise boundaries, Uber clarified that its infrastructure relies entirely on the island’s regulated workforce.

“Uber Taxi, the only option available through the app in Barbados, connects riders exclusively with licensed and authorised taxi drivers,” it said.

Addressing concerns about fare undercutting and the trade’s financial sustainability, the company maintained that it operates within the island’s existing legal framework, adhering strictly to regulated pricing structures rather than implementing independent algorithmic or predatory pricing.

“Its fares follow the official rates established by the Transport Authority,” Uber noted, adding that the platform remains inclusive of the entire industry. “The platform is open to any licensed taxi driver in Barbados who wishes to join and access additional earning opportunities through technology.”

Taxi operators, particularly those stationed at luxury West Coast hotels and official airport ranks, have reported drastic drops in income. Some claim traditional drivers are being heavily outpaced, facing a four-to-one imbalance in passenger pick-ups compared to those utilising the app.

Operators have also voiced frustration over Uber’s 20 per cent commission rate and expressed fears of “capital flight”, contrasting Uber’s multinational structure with homegrown alternative PickUp Barbados.

The statement did not directly respond to the “capital flight” accusations. 

(RR)