Carlos Silva, the new president of the Portuguese Taxi Federation (FPT), has acknowledged the “dedication and legacy” of his predecessor, Carlos Ramos, and has committed to “honoring and continuing” his work.
Silva, whose connection to the taxi industry dates back to his “earliest memories,” is the son of a taxi driver and founder of the Autocoope – Lisbon Taxi Cooperative. He entered the industry at a young age, taking on various administrative roles and working as a taxi driver within the cooperative.
The strategic pillars for the 2025 – 2029 term include enhancing the sector’s proximity and representation through “active listening to professionals and decentralized meetings.”
Silva also plans for the “modernization and innovation” of the sector through the adoption of technology, digitization, and adapted vehicles, aiming for increased sustainability with fleet decarbonization and the promotion of eco-friendly practices.
He identified the enhancement of the profession as a core pillar, emphasizing “continuous training, generational renewal, and improved working conditions,” as well as institutional strengthening through “active presence with regulatory and European entities.”
The new administration will advocate for “regulatory justice,” combatting illegal transport and revising legislation for TVDE services (individual road transport in unmarked vehicles via electronic platforms).
Silva supports integration into public transportation by enhancing the taxi’s role in areas with limited coverage.
“The taxi sector is seen as an essential public service, facing significant challenges due to unfair competition, technological evolution, and demands of modern urban mobility. There is clear concern for professional enhancement, environmental sustainability, and regulatory justice,” Carlos Silva stated about the current state of the taxi sector.
Based on these principles, he proposes “fleet modernization with more sustainable vehicles, tariff revision based on real operational costs, stringent oversight of TVDE activity and tour operators, and improvement of taxi rank infrastructures.”
Silva also advocates for continuous training and generational renewal within the profession.
He called for collaboration among all professionals, emphasizing that together they can “build a stronger, more respected federation prepared for future challenges.”
“The central message is hope, unity, and action, our time is now! For the taxi! With everyone and for everyone,” he wrote.
Carlos Silva has previously served on the federation’s social bodies representing Autocoope and, as president of the cooperative, assumed the candidacy for the presidency of FPT.
