BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s Transport Ministry is reviewing taxi fares based on vehicle size and service category, with a decision expected before the New Year following talks with three taxi associations on October 30.
Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angkasakulkiat chaired the meeting with representatives of the Thai Public Taxi Association, the Suvarnabhumi Taxi Coordination Association and the Electric Vehicle Taxi Association, alongside officials from the Department of Land Transport (DLT) and Airports of Thailand (AOT).
Taxi representatives raised four main issues: support for small operators switching to electric vehicles to reduce running costs, the establishment of committees to address problems in the public taxi sector, fare adjustments and an expansion of the areas covered by fixed-fare calculations.
The DLT is studying a revised fare structure based on four vehicle sizes, S, M, L and XL, with separate categories for Universal and Luxury services. The proposed rates will be assessed against operating costs before being submitted to the Transport Ministry and Cabinet.
The department is also planning additional charging points to support electric taxi drivers. A request to expand the areas covered by fixed fares will undergo further study. AOT said its SAWASDEE by AOT application can now calculate taxi fares. It has also compiled a database of 169 diesel-powered taxis whose drivers can be recommended to passengers travelling in groups of three or more, or carrying substantial luggage, allowing drivers to earn additional luggage-handling fees.
At Suvarnabhumi Airport, AOT has installed electric vehicle charging stations offering welfare rates for taxi drivers. It is also improving taxi facilities, including ticket kiosks, a multipurpose building, a canteen, a substation and passenger pick-up areas. Discussions with the Finance Ministry on further EV support are ongoing.
Siripong has appointed a committee and subcommittees to address issues affecting public taxis and motorcycle taxis. The DLT has been instructed to convene a subcommittee meeting and reach a conclusion on the distance rules for taxi meters before the New Year, taking into account the law and the interests of both passengers and operators.
