Title: Government Announces Fuel Credit Scheme for Ride-Hailing Drivers to Stabilize Fares
In a move to mitigate the economic impact of a new three-tiered fuel pricing system, the Iranian government has unveiled a compensatory credit scheme for drivers operating on ride-hailing platforms such as Snapp and Tap30.
A Targeted Subsidy Mechanism
The core of the plan involves providing eligible drivers with a financial credit to offset the price difference between subsidized fuel and the higher open-market rate—a gap of approximately 2,000 Tomans per liter. Officials state that this credit will be allocated directly to a driver’s fuel card or a designated account, making it usable exclusively at fuel stations. This approach is designed to prevent cash misuse or the resale of the allocated quota.
Eligibility and Implementation
The subsidy is intended for active drivers on Snapp, Tap30, and other officially recognized internet-based transportation platforms, as well as private car owners actively participating in the urban online fleet. A primary condition for receiving the benefit is verifiable and continuous driving activity.
A key component of the rollout is a national identification system, slated to be operational within the next three months. This system, developed by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with the Ministries of Oil and Communications, will be responsible for authenticating driver activity, preventing fraud, and managing the quota distribution.
Economic Impact and Expert Analysis
While the precise credit amount has not been finalized, some expert estimates suggest that diligent drivers could receive between 2 to 5 million Tomans monthly. Analysts indicate that this subsidy is expected to prevent a sharp, immediate surge in passenger fares. However, they caution that a gradual increase in tariffs remains possible should general inflation rise.
The government has emphasized that the subsidized fuel quotas for the general public remain unchanged and that revenue from the highest fuel tier will be redirected to support public welfare.
A Measure for Stability
Proponents of the plan argue that by reducing fuel cost pressures, the policy enhances the job security of drivers and provides a stabilizing effect on transportation costs for consumers. The ultimate success of the initiative, however, is widely seen as dependent on its precise, transparent, and uninterrupted execution.