Grab must explain its heatwave surcharge: consumer watchdog

Many passengers have called the surcharge of VND3,000-5,000 ($0.13-0.21) per trip effective from July 6 vague since Grab has not described what it considers hot weather or said if drivers would gain from it.

The VCCA, which is under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, wants Grab to submit a response by July 18 with details about its fees and surcharges including an explanation for the heatwave surcharge and the division of profits with its drivers.

In Vietnam, ride-hailing companies often impose a surcharge of VND10,000-15,000 during holidays, but this is the first time a company has announced a heatwave surcharge.

In March Grab raised fares by VND500-2,500 to help drivers cope with surging gasoline prices.

Many drivers of Grab and other ride-hailing companies have quit in recent months amid the rising fuel costs.