Athens Faces 48 Hour Taxi Strike as Drivers Press Government for Action
Taxi services across Athens have been halted today and will remain suspended tomorrow as drivers begin a 48 hour strike. The walkout forms part of a series of rolling 48 hour mobilizations announced by SATA, the main taxi union. Drivers argue that long standing concerns over taxation, electric vehicle requirements and market regulation have not been addressed.
Union representatives insist that the mandatory switch to electric vehicles should be postponed until 2035. They argue that high purchase prices, expensive electricity and limited charging points make the current timeline unworkable for professional drivers. SATA maintains that the industry risks economic collapse without a realistic transition plan.
Demands also include the creation of a clear legal distinction between traditional taxi services and chauffeured rental cars known as E I X. Drivers emphasize that transportation from point A to point B should remain an exclusive taxi service. The union suggests a minimum fare of €150 plus VAT for chauffeured rentals nationwide to prevent overlapping services and unfair competition.
Concerns over multinational ride hailing platforms form another central issue. Drivers claim that these companies operate with minimal oversight while local professionals face strict regulation and continuous monitoring. SATA argues that this imbalance harms radio taxi operators and deprives the Greek state of significant revenue.
Additional requests involve allowing taxis carrying passengers to use bus lanes, a measure drivers say is standard in many European countries. They contend that such access would reduce congestion and improve travel times for passengers while recognizing taxis as part of the public transport ecosystem.
Another key point is the financial pressure many drivers say they face. SATA argues that current taxation is excessive and seeks the establishment of a €12,000 tax free threshold. Drivers report that rising fuel, maintenance and living costs have made the existing tax system unsustainable.
The union notes that the government has repeatedly promised a legislative package to resolve sector issues. Drivers state that no meaningful progress has emerged in over 2 and a half years. Depending on the government's response, SATA says it will either escalate or suspend future mobilizations.
