Traditional taxis in HCM City streets. — VNS File Photo.

HCM CITY — The HCM City Appeals Court on Tuesday upheld a December 2018 verdict by a city court ordering Singaporean ride-hailing Grab to pay compensation of VNĐ4.8 billion (US$207,000) to taxi firm Vinasun.

Vinasun had filed a suit in the HCM City People’s Court in late 2017 accusing Grab of unfair competition. It alleged that Grab had exploited legal loopholes to offer many promotion deals and discounts.

It claimed compensation of VNĐ41.2 billion (nearly $1.8 million), equalling its losses in 2016 and 2017.

The court pronounced its verdict on December 28, 2018, saying Grab had seriously violated the country’s transportation laws.

In ordered the company to pay Vinasun compensation of over VNĐ4.8 billion plus costs of VNĐ112 million.

Both Vinasun and Grab filed appeals against the decision.

The appellate court upheld the original verdict that said Grab’s activities were responsible for Vinasun’s losses.

But Vinasun has not showed any evidence for demanding the further amount of VNĐ41.2 billion. — VNS