“Taxi Drivers Swarm Cancún Streets in Uber Showdown”

Approximately 700 taxi drivers took to the streets in Cancún, protesting against Uber's operations. The march took place along López Portillo Avenue, culminating at the City Hall on Tulum Avenue. This protest was in response to Uber's recent announcement of obtaining a judicial injunction, a landmark decision that allows them to operate at all airports across the country. The taxi drivers have previously taken action against Uber, including removing tourists from their vehicles and setting up blockades to prevent access to the airport, which led to some passengers missing their flights.

A group of leaders from the demonstration entered the Government Secretariat's offices in Cancún, while the remaining protesters stayed outside, displaying banners and chanting slogans against digital platforms. This protest is a precursor to a larger, state-wide demonstration planned for August 31st. The taxi drivers intend to set up blockades in the hotel zone, Cancún Airport, Puerto Morelos, and Playa del Carmen to pressure authorities into halting Uber's operations in Quintana Roo, which now has legal support.

During the meeting with authorities, the taxi drivers called for the strict enforcement of the mobility law that governs transportation services in Cancún. They aim to ensure that both traditional taxis and transport platforms like Uber operate under the same regulations. The need to review and adjust taxi service rates was also discussed. The meeting concluded with a call for cooperation between taxi drivers and digital platforms to resolve differences within a framework of legality and mutual respect. The authorities, in turn, pledged to increase operations and penalties to ensure compliance with the law.