Grab’s failed Trans-cab acquisition highlights challenge of solving structural issue of driver supply

WHEN news broke last week of Grab and Trans-cab pulling out of their proposed deal, it seemed like a foregone conclusion.

Singapore’s competition watchdog earlier in July expressed concerns over the weakening of competition should Grab be allowed to acquire taxi company Trans-cab. Among the concerns raised was how the acquisition would entrench and strengthen Grab’s dominant position in the ride-hailing market.

While the competition commission did give both Grab and Trans-cab 10 working days to propose solutions to allay those concerns, both parties ultimately decided to drop the plan rather than tie themselves up in knots over the issue.