Service Complexities in Latin American Countries: A Call for Transformative Transport Services
Transport services play a crucial role in economic development, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. In many parts of the world, particularly in developing economies, mobility challenges persist due to inadequate infrastructure, regulatory gaps, and socio-economic disparities. Addressing these challenges requires a transformative approach—one that prioritizes accessibility, sustainability, and equity in transport service provision.
TRATSEDI (Transformative Transport Service Design Initiative) was established to advance research and advocacy for inclusive transport services, particularly for vulnerable communities. Through our work, we have explored transport challenges in Africa, focusing on the informal transport sector, accessibility for people with disabilities, and financial constraints limiting mobility options. Our research on transformative transport services highlights the urgent need for interventions that enhance commuter experiences, promote sustainable mobility, and address regulatory shortcomings.
Rethinking Transport Services Beyond Africa
Transformative transport services have been a central focus in many African countries, where informal transport systems, accessibility challenges, and economic disparities shape mobility experiences. However, as we expand our understanding of transformative transport, it is imperative to move beyond Africa and explore transport service complexities in Latin American (LATAM) countries. These regions present distinct challenges and opportunities that demand innovative solutions tailored to their unique service ecosystems.
Understanding the Service Complexity in LATAM
Latin America has a highly complex service ecosystem influenced by socio-economic, political, and environmental factors. Services industries contribute over 65% of the region's GDP and yet, this sector faces numerous challenges, including high levels of informality, employment instability, corruption, gender disparities, and vulnerability to climate change.
Transport services, in particular, are deeply embedded in this complex landscape. Informal transport networks, often operated by independent drivers, co-exist alongside formal public transport systems, creating both accessibility solutions and regulatory challenges. Additionally, the dependence on personal relationships between buyers and service providers. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing policies and innovations that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and inclusivity.
Transport Services Provision in LATAM: Key Challenges
Informality and Unregulated Markets: Much like Africa, Latin America has a thriving informal transport sector, with taxis, motorcycle taxis, and informal ride-sharing services filling gaps left by inadequate public transport systems. However, this informality often leads to safety risks, inconsistent pricing, and limited consumer protection.
Economic and Social Barriers: Socioeconomic disparities affect mobility, with low-income communities facing limited access to affordable and efficient transport services. Gender disparities also play a role, as women often experience safety concerns while using public transit.
Environmental and Infrastructure Challenges: LATAM cities are vulnerable to climate change impacts such as flooding, extreme heat, and pollution. Sustainable and resilient transport solutions are needed to mitigate these risks while ensuring accessibility for all.
Technological Gaps and Digital Transformation: The adoption of digital solutions, such as ride-hailing and cashless payments, is growing in LATAM. However, challenges like technology skill gaps, digital exclusion, and inconsistent regulatory frameworks hinder full digital transformation in transport services.
Moving Forward: A Call for Discussion
Addressing these service complexities requires a transformative approach that considers LATAM’s unique socio-economic and cultural context. The need for innovative, inclusive, and sustainable transport solutions is urgent, and collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and industry players is essential.
If you are interested in exploring these challenges further, let’s connect. I welcome discussions on research collaborations, policy interventions, and business models that can drive positive change in LATAM’s transport sector. You can always reach out to projects@tratsedi.com or contact the team.
Let’s work together to create transformative transport services that serve both people and the planet.
