Kazakhstan has completed a pilot project on introducing self-regulation mechanisms in road transport, which could form the basis for reforming the taxi market... reports infohub.kz.
The discussion on self-regulation in passenger transport has been ongoing since 2023, when the Ministry of Transport submitted a relevant bill to parliament. The concept involved transferring some functions to professional associations: setting standards, maintaining registries, and monitoring compliance. Officials hoped to improve safety and reduce the illegal market, but the industry criticized the project for insufficient participation of players.
The pilot ran from April 3 to July 3 in Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent. The operator was the Union of Motor Transport Workers of Kazakhstan. The project covered regular international and interregional bus services, irregular bus services, taxis, bus stations, and auto terminals. The Union reported that mechanisms for forming a registry, checking carriers, controlling driver access, digital data exchange, and handling complaints were tested.
A feature of the pilot was the transfer of state control functions to a self-regulatory organization, including compliance with legislation and industry standards. According to the Union, this should enhance self-discipline and efficiency of interaction.
The project involved 26 bus carriers, one bus station, and 15 taxi companies. However, the participation of digital aggregator platforms was limited: only one platform (name not specified) took part, although most taxi orders are made through them. No separate pilot for aggregators is planned, but it is expected that they will become participants in the self-regulation system.
The Union noted that SRO participants are determined by law based on the unity of the sphere of activity, which classifies aggregators as such. Digital platforms should eventually ensure compliance with traffic safety requirements. However, questions remain about the distribution of responsibility between aggregators and carriers, driver access, and quality control.
The pilot results are important for passengers, as the future model of self-regulation will affect the cost and availability of rides. Additional requirements for carriers could lead to higher costs and, consequently, higher prices. Now we must wait for a decision on whether the project is considered successful or unsuccessful, which will determine the further development of the industry.