TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi (達拉·科斯羅薩西) is visiting Taiwan for the first time since taking office in 2017, praising the country's performance within Uber's global network. Still, Khosrowshahi expressed concern Friday (Dec. 12) over Taiwan's proposed delivery-specific law, which includes a "no stacking" clause, suggesting it could impact platform efficiency and the interests of consumers, merchants, and couriers.
Uber's services in Taiwan boast a 98% penetration rate, with an average waiting time of just 3-4 minutes for rides. Uber Eats ranks among the top 10 markets globally. The "Uber One" membership is notably popular, with one in two users subscribing, indicating strong consumer loyalty. Khosrowshahi warned that banning order stacking could increase delivery fees by NT$10-20 per order, potentially reducing demand and creating a negative cycle.
He highlighted that enforcing a "single delivery" rule might result in an additional 1 million monthly delivery trips, which would significantly impact the environment and traffic. Uber plans to enhance incentives for couriers through matching technology or subsidy mechanisms while seeking a compromise with legislators. In contrast to Uber's US$2 billion investment plan in Japan, Khosrowshahi noted that Taiwan's fleet model is economical and of high quality, with plans to expand partnerships.
Facing competition from Bolt's market entry, Khosrowshahi welcomed it, believing competition strengthens corporate health. Uber collaborates with approximately 20 autonomous driving ecosystem partners, including NVIDIA, Stellantis, Waymo, and Foxconn, to invest in self-driving technology, to enhance road safety.