The News Lens
Date; 2016/06/14
By: J. Michael Cole
Photo: J. Michael Cole / TNLI
One major taxi company in Taiwan has affiliations that may make you think twice before you open the door and jump in. Or not, depending on your views about Taiwan’s future.
One incredible thing about Taipei (and many cities across Taiwan) is how short the wait is before a taxi will spot you on the sidewalk and drive you to your destination for a fraction of the price one would pay in capitals of similar size worldwide. Another fascinating aspect about the business is the dazzling number of taxi companies that vie for customers.
While one can expect a relatively uniform service regardless of the company, one cab service, the Taiwan Grand Chinese Taxi Association (台灣大中華出租車司機聯誼會, or 大中華 for short), stands out for its rather transparent political affiliations and ideology.
Launched in 2008, the Association began with approximately 300 cars. According to reports in Chinese media at the time, the association intended to expand its fleet to more than 1,000 cars under the uniform 大中華 logo. Initially focused on cities in northern parts of Taiwan, the company was to expand its operations to provide services across Taiwan. [FULL STORY]
