In a written answer to a parliamentary question from Renew MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, stated that there is no specific EU legislation on local transport-on-demand (taxis and private hire vehicles with drivers). He emphasised that Member States are free to regulate the sector, provided they comply with the general Treaty rules on the internal market, particularly the freedom of establishment (Article 49 TFEU). The answer, published on 22 April 2026, responds to concerns raised by the Irish Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) about restrictive licensing regimes limiting competition, innovation, and consumer access, especially in rural areas and for late-night transport.
The question, submitted on 23 February 2026, asked the Commission to assess the compatibility of restrictive national taxi licensing regimes with EU internal market and competition principles. Commissioner Tzitzikostas clarified that while Member States can justify restrictions based on overriding reasons of general interest, such measures must be appropriate and proportionate. He referenced the Commission’s 2022 Notice on well-functioning and sustainable local passenger transport-on-demand, which provides guidance on the limits of national regulation.
The answer offers no concrete proposals, numerical targets, or deadlines, instead reiterating existing legal frameworks and soft-law guidance. It signals a cautious, non-interventionist policy orientation, deferring to Member States while reminding them of their Treaty obligations. No immediate institutional follow-up is indicated; the Commission appears to rely on its 2022 Notice as the primary tool for clarifying the regulatory landscape.