The Business Times
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HOCK LOCK SIEW

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

Benjamin Cher

Benjamin Cher

Published Wed, Jul 31, 2024 · 05:00 AM
    • The issue of driver supply is not going to be easily solved by ride-hailing platforms in Singapore.
    • The issue of driver supply is not going to be easily solved by ride-hailing platforms in Singapore. PHOTO: BT FILE

    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.

    Hock Lock Siew

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