| Support | Oppose |
| Improve passenger convenience: Electronic payment reduces problems such as giving change, insufficient cash and currency exchange, especially for visitors and people who rarely carry cash. As an important point-to-point transport service, taxis would fall behind modern consumer habits if they relied only on cash. Multiple payment options can make rides smoother and improve the industry’s image. | Increase drivers’ costs: Payment devices, transaction fees, network services and maintenance support may all add operating costs. Some drivers have unstable income, and once promotional fee waivers end, costs may fall on them. Without long-term support, a mandatory rule may put pressure on frontline drivers. |
| Support smart city development: Digital transport payment is part of a smart city ecosystem, linking public transport, retail and tourism services. Requiring electronic payment in taxis is not only an industry upgrade but also an improvement in overall urban services. In the long run, digital transaction records may also help analyse travel demand and improve transport planning. | Elderly or less tech-savvy drivers may be affected: Some drivers are older and may not be familiar with payment apps, settlement procedures or troubleshooting. Mistakes can delay trips or upset passengers. Training and technical support are needed; otherwise, more payment options may create confusion rather than better service. |
| Reduce fare disputes: Cash transactions can create misunderstandings over change, fare calculation or communication. Electronic payment clearly records the amount, time and transaction details, giving both passengers and drivers evidence. If complaints arise, platforms and enforcement bodies can check records more easily and reduce conflicting claims. | System failures may disrupt service: Electronic payment depends on networks, phones, devices and platform systems. Failure in any part may stop payment. Taxis operate outdoors, in tunnels, remote areas and busy periods where signals may be unstable. If electronic payment is mandatory, cash should still remain as a backup. |
| Improve visitor experience: In major cities, transport convenience strongly affects visitors’ impressions. Travellers may not be familiar with local cash, money exchange or ATM locations. If taxis accept common electronic payment methods, arrival and travel become easier. This strengthens visitor reception capacity and benefits retail, catering and tourism. | A one-size-fits-all rule may be unsuitable: Different drivers and fleets serve different passenger groups. Some mainly serve regular or short-distance riders, and electronic payment demand may vary. Applying the same rule to all taxis may ignore industry differences. A phased approach could first target high-demand districts and fleets. |
| Promote industry modernisation: The taxi industry has long faced pressure over service quality and competition. Electronic payment can be a starting point for reform. Once drivers become familiar with digital tools, it becomes easier to introduce e-receipts, lost-property tracking, complaint follow-up and fleet management. A basic payment requirement can push the traditional industry to upgrade. | Privacy and data security require attention: Electronic payment creates transaction records involving ride time, location, amount and payment tools. If platform security is weak, data may be misused or leaked. When promoting cashless payment, public authorities should also set clear data protection, complaint and liability mechanisms. |
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