Antiguans are lining up behind the new Swyft ride-hailing app, hailing it as a modern solution to long-standing transportation frustrations and dismissing resistance from the taxi sector as outdated.
Social media has been flooded with support since the app’s launch. Many residents called it the natural next step for a country whose taxi system has remained unchanged for decades.
“This is a much-needed service in Antigua and is well overdue,” one commenter wrote, stressing that with proper checks and licensing, it could be both safe and reliable. Others praised it as “sounding like Uber,” with one post simply declaring, “All hail Swyft.”
Several residents criticized taxi associations for blocking innovation and limiting access to new drivers. “The taxi association operates like a cult,” one person posted. “They pick and choose who they want to join… The only rational reason why they are opposed to this service is because of the competition. Get with the times, man! Allow other people to get a piece of the pie.”
Others pointed to the global shift toward digital platforms, noting that Antigua had lagged behind. “In a constantly evolving world, the ability to adapt to change has become an essential skill,” one commenter wrote. “The introduction of rideshare apps is just another evolution of the taxi business that was bound to catch up here.”
Another echoed the sentiment more bluntly: “Why are we in Antigua so resistant to change? We want innovation, we want progress, and when it comes we resist it. Embrace change or get left behind.”
One resident suggested the app would force traditional operators to finally meet customer needs: “Hit dem pockets so dem haffu pick up everybody now.”
In response to the debate, Swyft issued a statement saying it is not here to displace taxi services but to enhance them.
“Swyft is not here to replace or displace existing taxi services; rather, our mission is to enhance connectivity, safety, transparency, and convenience in mobility,” the company said.
The company outlined commitments to safety and compliance, including requiring all drivers to hold certified taxi permits, rejecting unlicensed vehicles, and providing features such as GPS tracking, real-time booking, upfront fares and cashless payment. Drivers retain 100 percent of their fare earnings.
Swyft reported more than 300 rides booked on its first full day during Carnival 2025, with drivers earning up to $1,000 during peak periods. It said it remains open to dialogue with associations and regulators, stressing that “technology, fairness and respect for existing industries can coexist.”
While the taxi association warns of threats to tradition and livelihoods, the public reaction suggests widespread impatience with the status quo and strong demand for change.
As one commenter put it: “Businesses can no longer afford to cling to the past. Your way of doing business is in the past. Get on board or get left behind.”
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If the taxi drivers want to not work with companies who offered them chances in the past, then they will be left behind. They resisted apps for so long because they rather be able to lie about their rates and overcharge people so screw them.
Exactly!
Those we refuse to keep up will be left behind, that is just the reality.
I remember when people use to say the same about OVZA.com , that it was going to take away the jobs of local professionals that register offshore companies. Instead of that happening, the digitalization that it introduced actually boosted Antigua’s standing in the offshore world and got a lot more eyes to look at our small island.
It’s better for the local stakeholders to plan well instead of trying to resist change.
I use the ride-share app a lot when I go to the Bahamas, and trust me, it is the best thing for me. I get picked up anytime I want. With the taxi’s, you have to call and book an appointment. It was too much of an hassle for me as a fast moving person.
I’m happy that this app finally reached Antigua.
Taxis need to get with the times or get left behind. The future and technology has caught up to them while they remained in caveman mode
Uber is a worldwide phenomenon today. No taxi organization no matter how big was able to stop it. In Trinidad you have two Uber companies and most if not all taxi drivers are part of the Uber drivers. They therefore have two jobs. You can call them as taxi or they come to you as part of Uber Pickup. Some countries do have restrictions as to where an Uber can pick you up or drop you off. I would suggest for example that an Uber cannot pick you up infront of the airport. You will have to walk to the old terminal to be picketr up. Amd we need to ensure proper regulations for who can be a driver for Uber. Taxi Union should have seen this coming and position themselves in that space long time. You cannot prohibit anyone to provide a legitimate service to the population. On what grounds will the Cabinet reject such an operation. Competition is good for the consumers. I wish they had it earlier.
I am for advancement and laud the introduction of such a system. However, I am aceptical about using something like that in 268 until I am sure that driver background check is done and, video monitoring systems would be in place from pick up to drop off point. Antigua has a lot of waste lands and hide out areas and there are no surveillance camera systems throughout the country. After all, safety is priority.
I tried the app and asked for a ride from the airport to jolly Harbour. 2 person ,1 baggage ,small car.
They offered a ride for usd 130.
Sorry, I’m not stupid. This will not work
I thought it will help the taxis.
These CIP passport holders and other investors must not be supported in dislodging the original pioneers of tourist transportation. This is the responsibility of the Board of Tourism to educate and uplift the local economic component instead of replacing it by tech-savvy expatriates. Taxi drivers are the first open experiment of Ai job replacement.
@ Less We ForgeT,
In what grounds can the authorities or Cabinet reject this App from operating?
What island do you live on? This Antigua and Barbada
Not getting a piece of the action is ground for rejection. Period!
If your mommy and daddy did not tell you; that’s how it works here?
Should they not get their piece of the action; they will hide behind the Taxi Associations, as the stumbling block.
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