In Oslo, the competition for taxi customers has intensified significantly, particularly at the Color Line terminal where several hundred passengers disembark from the Kiel ferry every morning. The local taxi company, Oslo Taxi, has an exclusive agreement that allows only their vehicles to queue at the terminal, leading to frustration among drivers from other companies. Recent incidents have highlighted the lengths to which some drivers will go to secure fares, including a recent occurrence where a driver was nearly run down by a colleague attempting to illegally pick up customers.

The situation at the terminal is closely monitored by Oslo Taxi's assigned outdoor supervisors, who ensure that only their taxis are allowed in the queue. These supervisors are typically experienced taxi drivers themselves, positioned to maintain fairness and uphold the rules of the contract with Color Line. However, the pressure to capture fares has prompted others to resort to aggressive and unethical tactics, as illustrated by the reports of drivers attempting to poach customers from their rivals.

This internal conflict among taxi drivers reflects a broader trend in the industry during a time of significant change, exacerbated by increased demand for taxi services post-pandemic and the competitive landscape that has arisen, including app-based services. As the market evolves, the challenges faced by traditional taxi companies, like maintaining customer trust and ensuring safety, are likely to shape future regulatory discussions and operational practices within the industry.