A heated debate has erupted in Catalonia over the future regulation of taxis and VTC services. Fourteen influential associations representing the interests of the restaurant industry, entertainment, culture, innovation, and transport have appealed to parliament, demanding a review of the draft law that aims to set the rules for taxis and VTCs in Barcelona.
These organizations, which account for about a fifth of the region’s economy, are convinced that the proposed restrictions do not meet the real needs of the metropolis. They believe the new law risks forcing nearly four thousand VTC licenses out of the market, which could impact not only residents but also key sectors of urban life—from nightclubs to gastronomy and cultural events.
Members of the #LaCiudadQueNosMueve alliance (translated as ‘The City That Moves Us’) emphasize that the current draft of the law is too strict and does not address modern challenges. In particular, they point to a shortage of transport at night, in outlying areas, during mass events, and amid tourist influxes. While other European cities are expanding mobility options, Barcelona, in their view, risks falling behind by limiting choices for both residents and visitors.
The alliance believes that VTC services and taxis should complement, not compete with, public transportation. Artificially reducing the number of VTCs will lead to overloaded transport, an increase in unsafe situations, and make the city less attractive for business and tourism. After months of discussions and public opinion analysis, alliance representatives note that most Barcelona residents support expanding transport alternatives, especially at night. Only a quarter of respondents feel they can do without a private car after dark, while trust in nighttime public transportation is particularly low among women and young people.
As part of the Urban Mobility Pact, presented to parliamentary groups, a ten-step plan has been developed to modernize the transport system. Among the measures are increasing nighttime travel safety, reducing dependence on private cars, and fostering synergy between taxis, VTCs, and public transport. The initiative’s authors insist that the law must be transparent, consider the interests of all market participants, and not hinder innovation. They call on lawmakers to listen to the voices of both society and business, so that Barcelona does not lose its position among Europe’s major cities.
Alliance representatives now hope for a constructive dialogue with the authorities. Their goal is to create a modern, flexible, and safe transport system that meets residents’ needs and supports the region’s economy.
