Protest action in Berlin: Taxis demand minimum prices against Uber and Co.

Protest action in Berlin: Taxis demand minimum prices against Uber and Co.

On July 4, 2025, a significant protest event took place at the Brandenburg Gate under the motto “National TAXI Day of Action”. Trade representatives and politicians come together here to draw attention to the challenges facing the taxi industry. On this day, not only were speeches given by prominent speakers such as Tino Schopf, Michael Oppermann and Hermann Waldner, but an elaborate loudspeaker speech was also organized to raise awareness among uncritical transport service users. You can find more information about the presence of the taxi industry at Taxi Times.

The demonstration began with an impressive taxi parade that led from the “Platz der Schwarzarbeit” and the Olympic Stadium towards the Brandenburg Gate. Although the number of participants was down compared to previous rallies that took place in 2017 and 2019, the event was well organized. Lines of taxis lined up in the direction of the Victory Column while loudspeakers played the consumer education speech. However, Transport Senator Ute Bonde (CDU) was refused to take part, which further fueled the mood among the demonstrators.

The problem of price dumping competition

A central concern of the speakers was criticism of the illegal practices of ride-hailing providers such as Uber, Bolt and Bliq. These providers systematically undercut prices and thus cause a decline in the number of taxis on offer, as studies show. Tino Schopf from the SPD and Tobias Schulze from the Left were critical of the Senate and the effects of this pricing policy on taxi companies. Michael Oppermann opened the rally with a clear call for the introduction of minimum fares for rental cars in order to counteract price dumping. The full report can be found at WDR.

The current challenges are also reflected in the widely varying prices between classic taxis and rental cars. A trip between Cologne Central Station and the Rhein-Energie-Stadion costs between 27 and 35 euros in a classic taxi, while Uber customers only have to pay around 18 euros. This price gap has a negative impact on the demand for conventional taxis.

Secure public services of general interest

The role of taxis in local public transport should not be underestimated. They represent an essential part of public services and, among other things, provide rail replacement services and special trips, for example for students and people with disabilities. It is important to ensure fair competition through minimum prices for rental cars. The consulting service IGES has highlighted in a report that the harmonization of pricing between taxis and rental cars is necessary in order to ensure the economic viability and competitiveness of taxis. You can view this information in detail IGES Mobility read up.

Overall, the national day of action is a clear step towards drawing attention to the urgent problems in the taxi industry. It remains to be hoped that the calls for minimum prices and legal clarifications for a fair competitive environment will be heard and that the importance of taxis in public transport will not be forgotten.