Latest news with #InDrive
Morocco World
3 days ago
- Business
- Morocco World
Only 18% of Moroccans Use Ride-Sharing Apps Despite High Satisfaction
Doha – Morocco is on the brink of a transport reckoning, as a fierce showdown between powerful taxi lobbies and rising ride-hailing giants threatens to upend the rules of urban mobility and redefine how the country moves. Recent data from a joint survey by the news outlet L'Économiste and the marketing agency Sunergia reveals that while only 18% of Moroccans have used ride-sharing apps, those who do overwhelmingly prefer them to traditional taxis. The survey shows that public transportation remains the primary mode of travel for 72% of Moroccans. Among these users, 50% rely on small taxis, 47% use grand taxis, and 40% take buses. Only 28% of Moroccans, predominantly men (38%), seniors over 65 (41%), rural residents (36%), and those in higher socioeconomic classes (49%), do not use public transportation. When it comes to service quality, tramways lead with a 96% satisfaction rate, followed by busways at 91%. Traditional small taxis earned an 81% positive rating, while grand taxis received 86%. Buses ranked lowest at 74%. Among the 18% of Moroccans who have adopted ride-sharing applications, the demographic skews toward women, people aged 18-34, urban residents, and those in higher socioeconomic categories. The remaining 82% cite various reasons for not using these services: 40% are unfamiliar with them, 26% see no need, 16% live in areas without coverage, and 15% already own vehicles. InDrive dominates the ride-sharing market with 96% of users choosing this platform, while Yango and Careem trail far behind at 4% and 2% respectively. Most users (69%) use these services infrequently, while just 7% report daily usage and 13% use them several times weekly. The survey reveals striking satisfaction levels among ride-sharing app users. A remarkable 97% rate the quality as good, with 86% describing it as 'very good.' Additionally, 95% of users report feeling safe when using these services. Perhaps most telling is that 76% of app users consider ride-sharing services superior to traditional taxis, with this sentiment especially strong among younger users and residents of northern and eastern regions. Battle for the streets: Morocco's transport showdown Despite consumer preference for ride-sharing services, traditional taxi operators continue to resist change. The taxi sector's professional organizations are demanding comprehensive legislative overhaul to address what they consider illegal competition from digital platforms. Industry representatives are pressing for immediate government intervention and a national dialogue to resolve the escalating tensions in the transportation market, particularly noting that ride-sharing operators avoid the tax burdens and licensing fees that traditional taxi drivers must bear. The taxi unions criticize the current regulatory framework as outdated, pointing to the 1963 dahir (royal decree) that governs the sector. This antiquated legislation predates the digital revolution and fails to address the fundamental technological and economic transformations that have reshaped urban mobility. Industry advocates propose the development of state-supervised digital platforms that would modernize their services while operating within Morocco's legal framework. Traditional taxis have come under increasing scrutiny for persistent service problems that frustrate passengers. Customers regularly encounter drivers who refuse short-distance trips, practice selective service that avoids certain neighborhoods, and arbitrarily increase fares during peak hours or inclement weather. Many riders report uncomfortable experiences with meters that mysteriously malfunction, vehicles in poor condition, and confrontational interactions when discussing routes or fares. Read also: After Rocky Exit, Uber Signals Return to Morocco Through Marrakech The absence of digital payment options and lack of transparent pricing further diminish the appeal of conventional taxis, especially among younger Moroccans who value convenience and clarity. The government appears to recognize the need for change. Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit announced on Monday that studies are underway to modernize the transport sector. Speaking before the House of Representatives, Laftit acknowledged that 'the current taxi system is no longer sustainable and must be developed to meet the challenges.' He pledged a technology-driven approach to reform, aiming to create a system that meets citizens' needs without harming those employed in the sector. The minister had previously taken a firm stance on maintaining order, warning that any unauthorized attempts to interfere with ride-sharing drivers would face strict legal consequences, following numerous documented confrontations between taxi drivers and app-based service providers. The transportation reform has taken on heightened urgency as Morocco prepares to welcome global visitors for major international sporting events, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup. These prestigious tournaments will bring millions of international travelers expecting efficient, reliable transportation services, placing additional pressure on policymakers to resolve the sector's deep-rooted inefficiencies and modernize Morocco's urban mobility ecosystem. Tags: Moroccan TaxisMoroccan Transportationride-share app
The Star
14-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Applications for incentives to attract international concerts, events open May 15
PUTRAJAYA: Applications for financial incentives under the Concerts and Events in Malaysia Incentive (CEMI) program will open from May 15 to July 10, says Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. The Communications Minister said the initiative aims to boost the concert and event industry, attract international events and enhance Malaysia's economic landscape by generating employment and increasing tourism. ALSO READ: Financial incentive for bringing in big concerts "CEMI will offer financial incentives to event organisers who meet the criteria," he said. Separately, he said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has not received any requests to ban Russian e-hailing applications InDrive and Maxim. He said that if the Transport Ministry were to submit such a request, MCMC would fulfil its duties in accordance with the law. "At present, MCMC has not informed me of any request from the Transport Ministry to take action," he said, adding that action can be taken under the Communications and Multimedia Act. He said this in response to a question on whether MCMC would ban the e-hailing applications that are ceasing operations in July.
Malay Mail
14-05-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
Are Russian e-hailing apps InDrive and Maxim blocked in Malaysia? Fahmi says no request yet from Transport Ministry
PUTRAJAYA, May 14 — Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil today said that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has not yet received any official request to block the InDrive and Maxim apps in the country. He said if the Transport Ministry (MOT) were to make such a request after the two apps were told to cease operating in Malaysia, MCMC would proceed in line with the legal framework. 'We have not yet received an official request from MOT regarding the blocking of these apps. However, if such a request is received, we will act in accordance with the law. 'Action could be taken under the Communications and Multimedia Act, but as of now, we have not received such a request,' he told reporters during the ministry's weekly press conference here. MORE TO COME
New Straits Times
14-05-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Fahmi: MCMC yet to receive request to ban Russian e-hailing apps
PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has not received any requests to ban the Russian e-hailing applications InDrive and Maxim. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said that if the Transport Ministry were to submit such a request, MCMC would fulfil its duties in accordance with the law. "At present, MCMC has not informed me of any request from the Transport Ministry to take action," he said. "Action can be taken under the Communications and Multimedia Act. However, as of today, we have yet to receive such a request. "If one is submitted, MCMC will carry out its responsibilities in line with the law," he added during the ministry's weekly press conference today.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
InDrive & Maxim banned in Malaysia starting July — appeals still possible
To my fellow commuters who, like me, juggle between various e-hailing apps to get around, it looks like we've got one more thing to add to our list of travel headaches. Starting 24 July 2025, both Maxim and InDrive will be officially pulled off the roads following a government order. Although whispers about the possible shutdown of these 2 platforms have been circling for some time now, the confirmation only came recently. On 9 May, Transport Minister Anthony Loke made the announcement public. This move comes after the Malaysian P-Hailing Riders Association brought the issue to light earlier this month. They called out the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) for allegedly turning a blind eye to foreign e-hailing platforms that were operating without proper authorisation. Following an investigation, APAD concluded that both companies had breached licensing regulations under the Land Public Transport Act 2010 (Act 715). Specifically, they failed to ensure that all vehicles listed under their platforms had valid E-Hailing Vehicle Permits. As someone who regularly switches between InDrive, Maxim, AirAsia Ride, and Grab, I can't deny that InDrive and Maxim often felt a bit scuffed. Their apps weren't exactly reassuring — offering inaccurate ETAs, missing driver photos, or incomplete license info. Compared to Grab's more polished and secure interface, they seemed to cut corners in places where safety and transparency matter. That said, it's hard to ignore why some users are worried. Grab may be the best choice, but its surge pricing during peak hours could be downright ridiculous. 2-km trips could cost you up to RM30 if luck is not on your side. What made InDrive and Maxim appealing was their affordability, with InDrive even letting passengers haggle and agree on fares directly with drivers. Loke did mention that both companies are free to file an appeal, but the final say remains in his hands. So what do you think — should they be given a second chance, or is it better we stick with fewer but more tightly regulated options on the road? Benihana's 1st Malaysia outlet serves theatrical teppanyaki, juicy steaks, rich salmon belly & unique mocktails The post InDrive & Maxim banned in Malaysia starting July — appeals still possible appeared first on
