THE government of Saint Lucia has firmly stated that it has not approved or authorized the operations of the Uber taxi service within the country.
Consequently, the authorities are taking necessary actions to address the situation.
During a media briefing on Monday, Tourism and Commerce Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire emphasized, “Contrary to what the public has been hearing and reading from various sources, the Government of Saint Lucia has not in any way approved, sanctioned, or encouraged Uber to operate any service in Saint Lucia.”
Dr. Hilaire explained that Uber first approached the government in December last year, expressing interest in establishing a service in the country. The company described its operations as a “technology platform that offers transportation for people wanting to move from Point A to Point B.”
The government responded by indicating an interest in reviewing Uber’s proposal and holding discussions with the company.
However, Dr. Hilaire revealed that last weekend, the government received notice from Uber stating they intended to launch their service the following day. The government promptly communicated that discussions to address the matter were forthcoming and advised Uber not to proceed.
The minister announced that a meeting with Uber was scheduled for Tuesday (February 3) , during which they will also engage with the National Taxi Union to discuss the implications of Uber’s proposed services.
Dr. Hilaire mentioned that an update on the situation would be provided by the following Monday.
He acknowledged the need for such services in Saint Lucia, stating, “We have started a process of reforming the taxi sector on the island. It is a sector that we have a deep interest in, and we will continue to regulate and modernize it as best as we can.”
The minister also said, “Uber represents a new reality that we must respond to, and once we have completed our discussions with the National Taxi Union and Uber, I will provide a more comprehensive update on our position.”
Prior to this latest development, Uber indicated a strong interest from hundreds of taxi drivers and five taxi associations in utilizing its services.
Regarding the timing of Uber’s launch, Dr. Hilaire stated, “Uber launched their service prematurely. We had indicated to them that we were going to discuss their interest in Saint Lucia and consult with stakeholders before moving forward.”
He concluded, “This process is ongoing, and it is essential to respect national procedures.”
Meanwhile, since last December, when Uber began registering licensed taxi drivers in Saint Lucia, local operators have expressed strong concerns about its impact.
One local taxi driver labeled Uber’s model as “predatory,” urging government intervention to protect the regulated industry from a global platform reshaping it without safeguards.
This sentiment is echoed across the Caribbean. In Barbados, the late-2025 launch faced protests from taxi operators worried about private vehicles competing against licensed taxis, threatening their earnings. The government intervened, allowing Uber to operate only with licensed taxis and enforcing set fares to stabilize the market.
In Saint Lucia, worries extend to bus drivers and local transport alternatives. While Uber recruits only licensed taxis, the app’s convenience for tourists could decrease traditional bus demand and pressure taxi drivers to accept app-based rates.
Local ride-sharing platforms like Allez may also struggle to compete with Uber’s significant brand recognition and marketing power. – R.A.