Taxi drivers

The number of white taxis is limited in Malta. Will this market become liberalised upon membership?

No. Membership will not affect the number of white taxis licensed to operate in Malta. In Malta there are around 200 white taxis that provide a taxi service. Although there are other vehicles that operate taxi services, the white taxis are the only vehicles that are authorised to pick up clients and wait at taxi stands. Chauffeur-driven cars must be called by clients. The current limitation therefore applies to white taxis and will not be removed upon membership. The numerus clausus that is currently in place is purely a national policy and will not be affected by EU membership.

In Malta, the licence is issued on the vehicle and not on the individual and in order for a taxi driver to enter the market, he must possess a driving licence and a licensed taxi. In order to start working as a taxi driver, therefore, one must buy an existing taxi permit. It is up to the national authorities to decide whether the market should have more, or less permits.