Belarus caps taxi surge pricing—but drivers warn of mass exodus

Belarusian authorities have agreed with major taxi companies to limit price surges during busy periods. The Ministry of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade (MART) signed the deal with dispatchers covering over 90% of the market, including Yandex Go, A1 Taxi, and Taxi 152. But drivers warn that capping fares could push many out of the profession entirely. The new rules aim to stop sharp fare increases when demand spikes, such as during rush hour or bad weather. Under normal conditions, a driver can complete about four short trips in an hour, earning roughly 12 rubles ($3.60) after expenses. But in heavy rain or traffic jams, earnings drop by nearly half, even though the work becomes harder and riskier.

A driver speaking on the issue explained that to make $800 a month, they must work at least 12 hours a day for 15 days—around 180 hours total. If surge pricing is restricted, they argue, many drivers may stop working shifts altogether. This could leave passengers struggling to find rides, forcing more people onto public transport instead. The driver also warned that without fair pay, some may leave the industry or return to unlicensed, off-the-books work. This could lead to poorly maintained cars or another round of fare hikes, hitting passengers the hardest in the long run.

The agreement between MART and taxi dispatchers is now in place. Drivers claim the changes will reduce their income and push many out of the job. If fewer taxis operate, passengers may soon face longer waits or turn to buses and trams for daily travel.