Key Highlights
- Taxis in the Valencian Community are planning a double demonstration on November 4, 2025.
- The protest is against the “intrusism” of VTC services and affects traffic significantly in Valencia.
- Approximately 7,000 taxi drivers from 3,000 in the province of Valencia and 4,700 in the region are expected to participate.
- The protest will last four hours, with marches starting at 8:00 AM and ending around 12:30 PM.
Background on the Taxi Industry and VTCs in Valencia
The taxi industry in Valencia has faced significant challenges recently due to the rise of Vehículos de Transporte Conductor (VTC) services, commonly known as ride-hailing apps like Uber. These digital platforms have disrupted traditional taxi operations by offering more flexible and competitive pricing options.
Impact on Taxi Drivers
Taxi drivers in Valencia are concerned about the impact of VTCs on their livelihoods. According to a recent statement from the sector, they believe that 7,000 families could be affected by the “intrusism” of these services. This figure highlights the scale of the issue and underscores the urgency with which taxi drivers feel compelled to act.
Organizations Behind the Protest
The protest is being organized by several key organizations representing the taxi sector in Valencia:
- Federación Sindical del Taxi de Valencia y provincia (FSTV)
- Agrupación de Taxis de Valencia (ATV)
- Unión Sindical de Obreros y Campesinos de la Comunidad Valenciana (USOCV)
- UCATA
- Caracol
Main Manifestations and Locations
The protest will have two main routes, starting at 8:00 AM. The first route will depart from Avenida de los Naranjos and Avenida de Catalunya (licenses with even numbers). The second route will start from Avenida del Camp de Túria and Avenida de las Corts Valencianes (licenses with odd numbers).
Both routes will make a stop at the Valencia City Hall to present an appeal, before heading towards the Conselleria de Medio Ambiente, Infraestructuras y Territorio in the 9 d’Octubre complex. The protest is expected to end around 12:30 PM.
Additional Measures
The taxi drivers will also set up informational roadblocks at key locations such as Valencia Airport (Manises), AVE and Nord train stations, and bus terminals in the city center. These measures are designed to ensure maximum disruption and visibility for their cause.
Government Response and Industry Perspectives
The taxi drivers’ unions have accused the local government of failing to address the issue adequately. Fernando del Molino, spokesperson for the Federación Sindical del Taxi, has stated that the protest will be well-attended, with almost no taxis operating during this period in Valencia.
Government Stance
In response to the looming protests, MOVVA, the Asociación Profesional de la Movilidad of the Valencian Community, announced that they would increase their presence on the streets to ensure the mobility needs of citizens are met. This move by MOVVA underscores the ongoing tension between traditional taxi services and VTCs.
The protest highlights the broader debate over regulatory frameworks for transportation in urban environments, where traditional industries face challenges from digital disruptors. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders will continue to monitor developments closely.
