Ride share service Uber has announced that it is “temporarily” pulling out of the Macau market after failing to win government approval to operate.
In a statement sent to account holders over the weekend, the company said it would suspend operations in order to “create the right framework in which we can open the door for a constructive dialogue with all stakeholders in the city.” Uber has been operating in Macau for almost two years despite the lack of a license, with drivers and passengers often playing a cat and mouse game with local police to avoid detection.
“We have fought hard every day to legitimise our Macau operations,” it said. “We communicated with many of our stakeholders. We made clear how ridesharing could benefit Macau. We listened to different voices with the greatest inclusiveness. Unfortunately, we have still room for improvement on this issue.”
Uber will cease offering its services in Macau after midnight this Friday 21 July, a decision it said was in the best interests of the city.
“We have already been exploring ways to serve the city again under the current legal framework and have had initial discussions with business partners, including transport operators and hotels, to make our return possible,” the company said.
“Our commitment to Macau has not been changed, and we still chased our dream from day one in Macau. Therefore, we hope to return. During our suspension, we would not stop our pace, but we will strive even harder for a return. We are open to work with all parties to make our return possible. Stay tuned.”
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