Uber says it wants a place in Saint Lucia’s future, even as the Government orders it to stop operating and the National Taxi Union (NTU) warns drivers they could lose their registration for using the platform.
But as for how it intends to overcome the legal and regulatory blocks in its way, the global ride-hailing company has remained silent.
Following the declaration by Deputy Prime Minister Ernest Hilaire earlier this month that Uber had started up illegally, St Lucia Times reached out to the company and posed six direct questions, including whether the company considers itself to be operating legally, whether it intends to comply with the government’s request to suspend operations, and what steps it has taken to align with Saint Lucia’s regulatory framework.
But in a written response, Uber did not directly answer those queries. Instead, it reiterated its position that it is willing to engage authorities and other stakeholders.
“Uber remains open to a respectful dialogue with all stakeholders and committed to be part of Saint Lucia’s future,” the company said.
Since launching on the island on January 27, Uber’s ride has been anything but smooth. It has been instructed by the government to cease operations, citing legal and regulatory concerns. The NTU, which represents the taxi workers Uber would need, has also warned its members that using the Uber Taxi platform could place their union registration at risk.
Minister Hilaire has identified three key areas of non-compliance: Uber has not obtained a trade licence, has not registered with the Inland Revenue Department to pay applicable taxes, and has not been certified under the Tourism Development Act.
Uber has described its app as a platform designed to benefit local drivers by connecting them with tourists, providing credit card payment options and allowing drivers to maintain independence over their schedules and trip selections.
Its arrival has sparked both curiosity and concern among Saint Lucians, reflecting broader frustrations with the island’s transportation system.
While the government and taxi union remain firm in their opposition, everyday commuters are weighing the potential benefits of a platform that promises reliability and choice.
A Beausejour resident, familiar with ride-hailing apps abroad, said the idea of a dependable service is appealing but noted mixed experiences with local platforms.
“Since returning to Saint Lucia in 2022, I’ve tried other ride-hailing apps and sometimes couldn’t find a driver or faced unexpected fees… so I eventually stopped attempting to use those,” the resident explained. Uber’s entry raised their interest, but also triggered concerns about affordability and long-term practicality.
For many, the debate goes beyond Uber itself. Gaps in Saint Lucia’s public transportation system – limited routes, inconsistent service and coverage shortfalls – continue to make daily travel difficult for workers and students.
“My ideal would be a revamped public transportation system that really has the benefit of Saint Lucians in mind, and ride-hailing apps as an option for those who can afford the luxury,” the resident said.
The bigger question for some is not just whether Uber stays or goes, but how Saint Lucia can build a more reliable, affordable and accessible system.