Greek taxi drivers are escalating their protests with a new 48-hour strike scheduled for January 20–21. The current strike ends at 6 a.m. on Friday, January 16, but drivers have announced continued action to press their demands, including a public industry briefing on Tuesday, January 20, at the Peristeri Exhibition Center.
The Federation of Greek Taxi Owners (SATA) criticized the government for “inaction and provocation,” warning that further escalation of the crisis is the government’s responsibility alone.
In recent meetings with parliamentary opposition parties, SATA outlined key concerns facing the taxi sector:
- Electrification: Drivers demand an extension of mandatory transition to electric vehicles until 2035 with a feasible, phased plan.
- Taxi Service Framework: Minimum guaranteed fares for chauffeur-driven cars to prevent market distortion.
- Unfair Competition: Opposition to multinational ride-hailing apps undermining traditional taxi services, particularly radio taxis.
- Special Lanes Access: Demand for taxi access to bus lanes, as practiced in other European countries.
- Taxation: Fair treatment and an end to excessive tax burdens on taxi operators.
- Pending Legislation: Opposition to draft laws perceived as threatening the financial stability of the sector.
SATA emphasized that parliamentary representatives across parties expressed support and committed to pushing for immediate solutions.
Drivers argue that government officials, including Deputy Minister of Transport Konstantinos Kyranakis, have ignored long-standing sector challenges and failed to address calls from thousands of taxi professionals. The strike aims to maintain public attention and pressure policymakers to act.
SATA concluded: “We remain united and determined. Victory will come through collective action.” The union urges widespread participation in the upcoming briefing and strike actions.
