Photo/Illutration Taro Kono, minister for digital transformation, observes a vehicle used in a system in which ordinary drivers transport customers for a fee in Yabu, Hyogo Prefecture, in November. (Asahi Shimbun file photo)

The government plans to lift a ban on ordinary drivers to transport customers in their private vehicles for a fee under certain conditions from April, sources said.

The move is aimed at securing a means of transporting people in depopulated areas and tourist sites, which have experienced a shortage of taxi drivers. 

In a sharp difference from a popular ridesharing service overseas, taxi companies will be commissioned to dispatch  drivers’ private vehicles and manage their operations.

Under the government's plan, drivers are expected to be required to conclude an employment contract with taxi companies.

In addition, drivers will be allowed to transport customers only in areas and during time slots when taxis are in short supply.

A similar program has already been allowed in some depopulated areas.

The government plans to continue discussions on a ridesharing service operated by companies other than taxi companies and reach a decision by June.

A nonpartisan group of lawmakers led by former Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has proposed lifting a ban on such services to the government.

In principle, the use of private vehicles to transport customers is prohibited under the Road Transportation Law.

In a policy speech in October, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said the government will address issues related to ridesharing.

The government’s Regulatory Reform Promotion Council has been hearing opinions from industry organizations and overseas service providers.

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