‘Surreal’: Bolt Cab Prices Rise To ‘Shameful’ Levels As Home Affairs Minister Reacts
Cab prices have risen following a government crackdown on new work permits for third-country nationals, as confirmed by the ride-hailing platform Bolt.
A spokesperson for Bolt told the Times of Malta that fewer available drivers, combined with higher demand, have resulted in extended periods of surge pricing and longer wait times.
Minister for Home Affairs Byron Camilleri also took to Facebook with a warning to platforms. “It seems that some are ready to use transport prices as blackmail,” he said. “We are taking note of this attitude, a few days after certain limitations were introduced, and it doesn’t make sense. The new law doesn’t impact drivers who are already in Malta and our decision certainly didn’t result in a scarcity of drivers.”
“If, on the other hand, this means of transport depends on precarious labour or even slavery, the time has come to take further decisions on this sector.”
Surge pricing, also known as dynamic pricing, is a pricing strategy used by ride-hailing companies like Uber and Bolt, where the cost of a ride increases when demand for rides exceeds the number of available drivers.
This typically happens during peak times such as rush hours, holidays, bad weather, or large events. These new higher prices follow the government’s decision to deny new work permit applications for hundreds of individuals seeking employment as cab drivers and food delivery couriers, as a means to control the population.
The government stated that new applications for work permits in these roles from third-country nationals were being rejected because the market had “reached saturation.”
In recent days, social media users have showed their dismay via posts critiquing the ludicrous prices of Bolt fare prices.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Robert Abela stated that third-country nationals whose services are no longer required must leave the country, adding that “only those who are legitimately invited are welcome.”
“I understand their situation, but I also have a duty to the national interest. If our job market indicates saturation, it means workers who aren’t legitimate must leave the country,” he said.
What do you make of these absurd prices?