Grab Vietnam said that they might be interpreting the law differently after the Ministry of Industry and Trade concluded that Grab violated competition law in Vietnam.

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Jerry Lim, director of Grab Vietnam, said when purchasing Uber in Vietnam, they had consulted with legal experts carefully and believed that the acquisition didn't violate the laws. There might be a difference between Grab's and the authorities’ interpretation about what constituted a competitive market.

He went on to say that Grab would continue working with the Vietnam Competition Authority in the investigation. They also hoped that the authorities would resolve the issue.

According to Jerry Lim, taxi firms in Vietnam and other app-based services in other markets were still strong competitors. Passengers and drivers should have the freedom to choose whichever service they want.

He said Grab shared with every government the desire to protect consumers.

After the acquisition of Uber, Grab claimed to have focused on improving its service for both passengers and drivers.

On December 12, Ministry of Industry and Trade announced that Grab had failed to notify the authority about the acquisition in accordance with Article 20 of the Competition Law. The acquisition meant Grab obtained a more than 50% market share which is not permitted under Article 18 of the law.

The case has been transferred to the Vietnam Competition Council.

Nguoi Lao Dong/Dtinews