The announced changes in taxi regulations in Curaçao offer taxi drivers new opportunities
The Curaçao government has unveiled plans to modernize outdated passenger transport legislation, a step that is being welcomed with open arms by the Taxi Association TSA (Thirty Steps Association). This reform is considered crucial for the island, where tourism is steadily increasing, while the number of taxi licenses has been limited to two hundred since 1992.
The TSA notes that this stagnation in the issuance of permits leads to a daily shortage of available taxis, which mainly causes problems for tourists. A notable improvement in the new legislation is that taxi drivers are no longer required to stop working once they turn 65. “According to current law, I must stop driving a taxi once I turn 65. With the new law, I can continue to work as long as I have a valid driver's license,” explains Hubert Hart, President of TSA.
Another important aspect of the new law is that it allows taxi drivers to convert their sole proprietorship into a company, such as an NV or BV. This offers them more flexibility and economic opportunities. Drivers can apply for more license plates under the banner of their company, provided they can submit a solid business plan. This change not only allows for expansion, but also makes the business a valuable asset that can potentially be sold.
The Taxi Association TSA (Thirty Steps Association) emphasizes the importance of updating taxi regulations on Curaçao, an island where tourism is experiencing steady growth. Despite this, the number of taxi licenses has been limited to just two hundred since 1992. This situation poses a significant barrier to the taxi industry, especially given the increasing demand from tourists.
This transition requires taxi drivers to prepare for entrepreneurship. Although they are currently self-employed, this does not automatically mean that they have a business. The government strives for a more business-oriented and flexible taxi industry. Drivers will have to deal with tax matters and other legal obligations, especially if they own multiple taxis.
Joy Rosinda, colleague of Hart, emphasizes that these plans are in line with TSA's philosophy. “We have also embraced the innovative 24-7 Taxi platform, which was created during the COVID period and offered to us a few years ago. This has led to more trips and revenue, allowing us to operate more efficiently, which benefits our customers,” he adds.
business plan
One of the most notable changes is that drivers will now be able to apply for multiple license plates under the banner of their own company. This is a significant shift from previous regulations, which limited the ability to expand their taxi services. An important condition for obtaining these additional license plates is to submit a thorough business plan.
This plan must demonstrate the feasibility and sustainability of the expansion of taxi services. This requirement highlights the shift towards a more entrepreneurial and professional approach within the island's taxi industry. The opportunity to grow their business allows them to play a more prominent role in the island's growing economy, especially in the tourism sector.
