Mexico: COFECE calls for ending barriers to airport taxi operators

Mexican competition regulator COFECE sent last week recommendations to the Senate, asking for steps to eliminate several barriers to free competition among taxi operators across the country’s airports. The COFECE proposal calls for the Communications and Transport ministry (SCT) to issue all permits for Passenger Transportation Services out of the country’s airports to any applicant who fills the requirements, without their decision depending on airport administrators.

The recommendations follow a series of fines, amounting to over $63 million pesos (just over $3 million USD) against the Mexico City International Airport authorities over alleged discrimination against potential taxi operators at the main terminal, which was used to favor a small number of companies.

Several airports around the world have turned to an Open Access model for taxi providers, with Boston, Houston, Philadelphia, San Francisco and New York’s JFK being prime examples. The COFECE has said the measure could solve the large inefficiencies in unit use, promote lower prices and reduce waiting times. According to their studies, there is one taxi available per 96 passengers in Mexico City airport, while popular tourist destinations fare worse, with Cancun reaching 105 passenger per unit, which results in long lines and waiting times.

Full Content: El Financiero

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