From June 1, 2026: Cologne introduces minimum prices for rental cars – BVTM sees a strong signal for fair competition

The Federal Association of Taxi and Rental Cars e.V. (BVTM) welcomes the published general directive of the City of Cologne regarding the introduction of minimum fares in the rental-car sector with great pleasure. Cologne would send a 'powerful signal'.

Minimum prices for rental cars will, from June 1, 2026, bring more fairness to Cologne's streets.| Photo: taxi-heute editorial team / AI
Minimum prices for rental cars will, from June 1, 2026, bring more fairness to Cologne's streets.| Photo: taxi-heute editorial team / AI

With effect from June 1, 2026, Cologne is sending a powerful signal for fair competitive conditions and is joining a growing number of cities that consistently oppose ruinous price competition in the mobility market.

"The decision in Cologne is a strong and important signal for fair competition. Minimum transport charges are an effective instrument against ruinous price pressure and ensure reliable framework conditions in the market," explains Michael Oppermann, managing director of the Federal Association. "That more and more cities are taking this path shows that policymakers recognize the need for action – and they are moving to active implementation."

Securing essential public services

The BVTM emphasizes that the general order not only creates economic stability for companies, but also secures the provision of essential public services in urban transport. Cologne thus joins a development that is gaining momentum nationwide.

Special thanks are due to the efforts of the local business community: The federal association member TAXI RUF Köln has actively supported the political process for a long time and has provided important impulses in the media and in politics. This sustained engagement has significantly contributed to the 1.1-million-inhabitants metropolis, so that a balanced and viable regulation is now being implemented.

A central building block for more fairness

For the Federal Association of Taxi and Rental Cars, it is clear: minimum fares are a central building block for a fair and future-proof mobility market. Cologne strengthens this path with its decision – and sends a clear signal for other municipalities.

“We are finally seeing nationwide a clear development toward more fairness in competition. Cologne, as the most populous city in North Rhine-Westphalia, is another important building block of this development,” said Oppermann.

(Click here for the general decree)

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