Phuket –
Authorities in Phuket are taking decisive steps to regulate ride-hailing services and address the long-standing issue of unauthorized “black plate” vehicles operating on digital platforms.
At a high-level meeting held at the the provincial hall, Governor Nirat Phongsitthithavorn chaired discussions with provincial officials including Adcha Buachan, Phuket’s Transport Chief, and Rungreung Thimabutr, Provincial Permanent Secretary. The session brought together key agencies to seek solutions for the growing tensions between licensed taxi operators and unregistered drivers.
The central focus of the talks was the prevalence of private vehicles, commonly referred to as “black plate” cars, that continue to appear on ride-hailing apps despite lacking proper authorization under Thai law. Officials stressed that these vehicles must be removed from digital platforms to ensure compliance with regulations set by the Department of Land Transport.
The proposed measures are to align local enforcement with national standards and the oversight framework of the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA). By tightening controls, Phuket hopes to create a fairer system for licensed drivers while reassuring tourists and residents about safety and legal compliance.
Governor Nirat stated that Phuket will also explore assistance programs for drivers impacted by the crackdown. A dedicated working group will be established to design comprehensive solutions, balancing enforcement with economic support for those transitioning to legal operations
