The introduction of new restrictions on VTC (vehículos de transporte con conductor) services in the Valencian Community could bring significant changes for residents and visitors alike. The authorities’ decision affects not only drivers but also thousands of families whose income directly depends on this sector. The economic consequences and possible disruptions in transportation are already causing concern among many Spaniards.
Protest Campaign
The associations Unauto VTC, MOVVA, and Feneval-VTC, which bring together VTC drivers in Valencia and Alicante, have launched a large-scale information campaign. Warning posters have appeared on the front seats of more than a thousand vehicles: if the new decree takes effect, around 5,000 workers could lose their jobs. The posters display a QR code linking to the website tuultimoviajevalencia.es, where the potential consequences of the planned changes are detailed and where users are encouraged to send a message to the regional leadership requesting a review of the decision.
The organizers of the campaign emphasize that reducing the number of VTCs will lead to longer wait times for transport, especially at airports and train stations. Even now, at Alicante-Elche Airport and at the railway stations in Valencia and Alicante, passengers are experiencing long delays. In their view, the situation will only worsen if the number of VTCs is reduced.
Economic impact
According to industry associations, a ban on urban VTC operations could cost the region over 208 million euros. The losses would affect not only the drivers themselves but also the public budget: a decline is expected in tax and social security revenue, as well as a reduction in salaries by more than 104 million euros. This could have a negative impact on the Valencian Community’s economy and lead to decreased income for local businesses.
Association leaders note that VTCs play an important role in ensuring mobility and competition in the transport market. In their view, a reduction in the number of such vehicles will lead to a decline in the quality of transport services and lower revenues for transport-related businesses.
Reaction and consequences
VTC drivers and company representatives believe that the new rules restrict freedom of movement and threaten thousands of jobs. They are calling on authorities to reconsider their approach to regulating the sector in order to avoid mass layoffs and decreased transport accessibility.
At a time when Spain’s transport system is already facing disruptions, any additional restrictions cause concern. For example, the recent railway workers’ strike led to the cancellation of hundreds of trains and disrupted daily life in many cities. Events like these reveal just how vulnerable the country’s transport infrastructure is to sudden changes.
Context and trends
According to El Confidencial, the debate over new regulations for VTC is unfolding amid growing demand for alternative transportation and ongoing discussions about balancing traditional taxis with modern services. In recent years, similar disputes have arisen in other regions of Spain, where authorities have tried to restrict VTC operations to support classic taxis.
In 2025, Barcelona and Madrid already introduced measures to reduce the number of VTC licenses, sparking a wave of protests and legal disputes. Each decision by the authorities led to tensions among different market participants and impacted transportation access for residents.
Overall, the situation in Valencia reflects the national trend toward tightening regulations in the transport sector. The question of how to balance the interests of businesses, workers, and passengers remains open and requires further discussion.
