The Belgian Taxi Federation (FeBet) will organise a demonstration during the carnival holiday, between 3 and 9 March. The exact location and date are yet to be announced.
The taxi drivers are calling for a halt to the removal of taxi ranks, exemption from the regional tax, and the return of the taxi lane at the Boulevard du Jardin Botanique.
The regional tax is one of the major sources of discontent. Since 2023, the regional tax on taxi services has amounted to €614.32. "This additional charge weighs heavily on our sector," says the FeBet.
According to the federation, outgoing Brussels Minister-President Rudi Vervoort (PS) had promised to abolish this tax. "Instead, he indexed it, further increasing our costs," it added.
FeBet also wants stricter and regular controls on illegal drivers at the Midi-Station, to end the unfair competition.
This isn't the first time the taxi drivers have expressed their discontent with the reality of their sector. Last December, in protest, the taxi drivers repainted their removed parking spaces near Brussels-Midi station. The drivers intend to continue to mobilise in the face of a situation they consider unfair.
Further details of the planned action, including the date and exact location, will be announced on the eve of the demonstration by the FeBet.
