Thailand Updates Ride-Hailing Rules

Why this is here: Bolt recently provided medical and mental health support to a passenger involved in an incident in late April, demonstrating a degree of corporate responsibility.

Thailand’s Transport Ministry unveiled three new measures to support drivers and increase safety for app-based ride services. Deputy Minister Siripong Angkasakulkiat directed the Department of Land Transport to enforce new regulations within four months. These changes include lowering vehicle registration costs for drivers and replacing first-class insurance with mandatory public liability insurance.

Authorities also plan to encourage CCTV installation in vehicles and issue safety stickers for compliant cars. The ministry will allow companies to lease vehicles to drivers who don't own cars, expanding opportunities. Ride-hailing platform Bolt received a one-month extension to operate, contingent on improvements to driver qualifications and safety systems.

Regulators expressed concern over past complaints and legal disputes involving Bolt. The company recently enhanced driver selfie checks with facial recognition, but further action depends on official reports from the DLT regarding Bolt’s progress. The ministry continues to evaluate how best to balance competition with passenger safety.