Background on Key Players and Context
The Mexican government, through the Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social (STPS) and the Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor (Profeco), has taken issue with Uber’s decision to implement a 7% tariff on its ride-hailing service. This move aims to offset costs related to the recent labor reform for app-based services, which came into effect on June 22nd.
Uber’s announcement has been met with criticism from the STPS, as it allegedly breaks commitments made during discussions on the labor reform. This reform was designed to provide access to social security and Infonavit for app-based drivers and couriers. During these talks, companies agreed not to raise their tariffs or negatively impact workers’ and consumers’ income.
Government’s Concerns and Actions
The STPS expressed concern over the timing of Uber’s new tariff, just 15 days after the IMSS pilot program began. There is still no precise estimation of the real impact on operational costs for companies or the exact number of workers formally included in the social security regime.
In response, the STPS announced it will collaborate with Profeco to conduct a nationwide operation. The purpose is to verify compliance with the Federal Consumer Protection Law, ensuring tariff policies are fair and do not harm citizens.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the issue at hand? The Mexican government is targeting Uber for adding a 7% tariff to its services, which they claim goes against commitments made during labor reform discussions.
- What were the commitments made by Uber? Uber agreed not to raise its tariffs and ensure that the labor reform would not negatively affect workers’ income.
- Why is the government concerned about the timing of Uber’s tariff increase? The new tariff was announced shortly after the IMSS pilot program began, with no clear understanding of its impact on operational costs or the number of workers affected.
- What actions will the government take? The STPS and Profeco will collaborate on a nationwide operation to ensure Uber’s tariff policies comply with consumer protection laws.
