Zanzibar is planning to introduce a modern taxi metering and digital payment system aimed at improving transparency, service quality, and efficiency within the islands’ transport sector.

The initiative is being developed through collaboration between the Zanzibar Revenue Authority (ZRA), the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism (ZCT), and a special purpose vehicle operating under PPS.

The main goal is to standardise taxi fares across Zanzibar by installing taxi meters and integrating digital payment solutions for both residents and visitors.

The proposed system is expected to address long-standing challenges in the transport sector, including inconsistent pricing, complaints of overcharging, and inefficiencies linked to cash-based transactions.

By introducing fixed and transparent fare structures, the government hopes to improve trust between taxi operators and passengers while enhancing the overall visitor experience, especially for international tourists who rely heavily on taxi services.

Stakeholders say the reform is part of Zanzibar’s broader strategy to modernise tourism infrastructure and align its services with international standards.

The system will also support greater financial transparency, improve tax compliance, and help formalise the transport industry within the tourism economy.

Taxi operators are expected to benefit from more structured business operations, better accountability, and improved access to formal financial systems.Government institutions will also gain from improved revenue monitoring and stronger oversight of the sector.Industry observers believe the move will boost Zanzibar’s competitiveness as a tourism destination by increasing confidence in mobility services.Ongoing consultations are focusing on operational design, payment mechanisms, fare structures, and implementation timelines before full rollout.