Uber's Supreme Court Loss Spares Rivals from VAT Hike

The UK Supreme Court ruled against Uber's appeal to impose a 20% VAT on rival taxi operators outside of London. This decision upholds differences in contractual protections outside the capital and prevents significant pricing impacts on the private hire sector.

Uber's bid to enforce a 20% VAT on rival taxi operators outside London was thwarted by the UK Supreme Court on Tuesday, maintaining the status quo and sparing competitors from potential financial strain.

The ruling solidifies a distinction in contractual protections between London and the rest of England and Wales, a relief echoed by the broader private hire sector as it sidesteps hefty fare increases.

Meanwhile, Bolt, an Estonian ride-hailing company, faces continued legal challenges concerning VAT obligations, despite its victory at an earlier appeal, indicating ongoing turbulence in the UK's regulatory landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)