Córdoba debates Uber regulation amid controversy over quotas and minimum fare in the City Council
The ruling party seeks to adjust the original project
porEditorial Team
Argentina
Taxi drivers protested in a caravan while council members define changes that could restrict competition
The Concejo Deliberante de Córdoba is preparing for a key session this Thursday, where the regulation of platforms like Uber will be discussed. The ruling party seeks to adjust the original proposal to address the cross-pressures between the taxi drivers' union and technology companies. The decision on the final text will be crucial to determine whether the initiative moves forward, is modified, or is halted.
This Tuesday's march brought dozens of taxis in front of the legislative building in protest against the proposal, which they consider insufficient to level the playing field. The drivers demanded a framework that limits the arrival of new competitors, while Uber insists on more flexible rules. The ruling party states that "the text will be addressed on Thursday" despite the tense atmosphere.
Among the most controversial measures is a maximum quota of drivers equivalent to one vehicle for every 375 city residents. Critics warn that this would artificially limit the supply of transportation, favoring a monopoly for those who manage to obtain licenses. They also question the minimum fare tied to the bus ticket, which would prevent price competition.
El Concejo Deliberante de Córdoba se prepara para una sesión clave este jueves
Political pressure and three possible paths in the session
Legislative sources indicate that Peronism is considering three options for the vote: postponing the debate for one week, approving the current text, or sending the modifications to committee. Meanwhile, Radicalism conditions its support on the removal of the quota, stating that "with that restriction, there is no possible competition." The decision will depend on whether the ruling party yields on the most controversial points.
The proposal establishes strict requirements for vehicles and drivers, such as a maximum age of ten years, mandatory insurance, and a professional license. Drivers must have a clean record, legal residence in Córdoba Capital, and pass the current vehicle inspection. In addition, they will be required to have personal accident or workers' compensation insurance and not appear in the sex offender registry.
A limit of twelve hours of driving per day is also set, a measure the ruling party defends as a guarantee of road safety. However, experts argue that these types of restrictions, combined with the quota and minimum fare, end up increasing the cost of the service. Thursday's session will determine whether Córdoba chooses to open the market or maintain barriers that prohibit competition.
