Shanghai to Blacklist Rogue Taxi Drivers After Airport Overcharging Scandal

Shanghai will introduce a blacklist system targeting taxi drivers who engage in misconduct at major transport hubs, following a string of complaints over overcharging, ride refusals and passenger mistreatment.

Under the new measures, announced for Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, drivers found guilty of violations such as fare bargaining, detours, mid-journey drop-offs or refusing passengers will be placed on a “restricted list” starting May 10.

First-time offenders will be banned from operating at these hubs for three months, with repeat violations leading to six-month bans or permanent exclusion.

The regulation was jointly introduced by the Shanghai Taxi Industry Association, operators of the city’s major transport hubs, and leading taxi companies, in a coordinated effort to strengthen industry self-discipline and improve service standards, reported Knews today.

Authorities say the blacklist system is aimed at restoring order, protecting passengers and compliant drivers, and curbing long-standing abuses tied to profit incentives and loopholes in airport queue management.

The move comes after a widely reported incident in which two drivers were fired and blacklisted for overcharging passengers arriving at Pudong airport. According to Xinmin Evening News, the passengers were forced to switch taxis mid-journey and ultimately charged 800 yuan (US$117) for a trip that typically costs around 200 yuan.

When a companion requested a receipt, one driver allegedly fled the scene, brushing past the person and driving against traffic. Police later tracked down both vehicles involved.

The taxi company said the drivers had been dismissed, refunded the full fare and issued an apology.