The ministry said it has also warned four ride-hailing platforms run by companies including DiDi Global and Meituan3690,about driver protection, fair competition and transportation safety. The regulator’s move followed several earlier tightening measures targeting the ride-hailing and cargo-delivery market, including rules to cap commission rates and strengthen driver welfare. The ministry also told companies to fulfill their social responsibilities and ensure smooth operations during the Lunar New Year holidays, a peak season for passenger traffic and travel demand in China. AdvertisementThe companies said they will rectify existing problems and conduct systematic reviews of their operations to safeguard driver rights and ensure regulatory compliance, according to the ministry. Shares of Meituan, the only stock trading at the time of the ministry’s statement, erased earlier gains and edged down.

Source: Wall Street Journal January 22, 2022 19:35 UTC