Ride-hailing services are reshaping urban transport, providing a quick and convenient alternative to private vehicles. With just a smartphone, passengers can book a ride anytime, anywhere, creating seamless connections between riders and drivers.
Bolt’s latest Economic Report highlights the industry’s impact on the economy, employment, and urban infrastructure. The report explores key trends and identifies opportunities for sustainable growth and long-term support.
Beyond convenience, the ride-hailing sector is a major contributor to Thailand’s economy. It generates jobs, supports local businesses, and reduces the reliance on personal vehicles. However, for the industry to grow further, regulations must evolve to align with modern mobility demands.
Expanding Job Opportunities and Economic Impact
The global shared mobility industry is on track to provide earnings for 16 million drivers by 2030, according to the Oliver Wyman Mobility Forum. In Thailand, ride-hailing continues to expand, with major hubs such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, and Hat Yai seeing growth rates of up to 90%. Emerging markets like Chiang Rai and Udon Thani are also experiencing rapid adoption.
Currently, over 500,000 drivers rely on ride-hailing platforms for income, with the industry expanding at an average rate of 10% annually. Around 75% of drivers earn approximately THB 30,000 per month, which is more than double the national minimum wage. The sector generates over THB 20 billion in revenue each year, contributing THB 33 million in taxes and boosting the automotive industry, which benefits from vehicle sales, rentals, and maintenance worth THB 55 billion annually.
Boosting Tourism and Urban Transport
Ride-hailing does more than facilitate daily commutes. It also plays a vital role in local economies. Bolt Thailand’s General Manager, Nathadon Suksiritarnan, stated that technology-driven services help people move efficiently while ensuring drivers earn a stable income and passengers receive safe, affordable rides.
Tourism also benefits from ride-hailing services. Around 60% of users in Thailand use these services at least once a month, and 25% are international visitors. The tourism-related ride-hailing sector alone generates THB 17.8 billion in local business revenue annually.
Shifting Mindsets on Car Ownership
Ride-hailing is changing how people view car ownership. A survey of 1,200 users in Thailand found that 12.5% of non-car owners had previously sold their vehicles, and 23% of car owners were considering selling theirs to rely on ride-hailing services instead.
Despite this shift, outdated regulations continue to challenge the industry. Motorcycle taxi laws, which were established nearly 50 years ago, remain unchanged. Licensing hurdles and expensive insurance for part-time drivers create barriers that slow the industry’s growth.
For ride-hailing to thrive, Thailand’s regulatory framework must adapt. Key recommendations include streamlining driver registration, making insurance policies more accessible, and modernizing transport laws to align with current industry needs.
One Bangkok-based driver shared that working with a ride-hailing platform has provided a stable secondary income alongside his small business. Simplifying entry requirements and reducing costs could help more drivers access opportunities in this growing industry.
Research confirms that ride-hailing significantly impacts Thailand’s economy by creating jobs, easing traffic congestion, and enhancing transportation efficiency. To sustain this progress, digital advancements and smart regulations are needed to support long-term industry growth.
Bolt continues to invest in advanced technology and strengthen collaboration between public and private sectors to elevate transportation standards. By embracing regulatory updates and digital solutions, the ride-hailing industry can further enhance convenience, safety, and economic contributions for drivers, passengers, and Thailand’s economy.
