Singapore, 12 March 2026 – Ride-hailing and food delivery platforms across Southeast Asia are rolling out different measures to help drivers and riders cope with rising fuel prices, as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East drive up energy costs across the region.
The surge in petrol prices follows escalating conflict involving Iran, which has disrupted global energy markets and pushed fuel costs higher in many Asian economies. Governments and businesses alike are exploring ways to mitigate the economic impact of these increases.
Platforms Respond With Different Support Measures
Major mobility and delivery platforms have adopted varied strategies to support gig-economy workers whose incomes are directly affected by higher operating costs.
Indonesia-based GoTo Group said it is closely monitoring oil price movements and global developments given the importance of fuel costs to its driver ecosystem. The company noted that it has historically managed periods of energy price volatility and expects its services to remain resilient because they form an essential part of daily urban transportation and delivery networks.
Singapore-listed ComfortDelGro has taken a more direct approach by absorbing part of the fuel price increases for taxi drivers. Working with the National Taxi Association, the company is also introducing targeted fuel subsidies to ease financial pressure on drivers during this period of market volatility.
Incentives and Fuel Discounts for Gig Workers
Food delivery platform foodpanda is leveraging partnerships with petrol retailers to help riders manage fuel costs. The company offers up to 20% fuel discounts through arrangements with petrol station brands such as Esso, Shell and Caltex, while also providing additional discounts for equipment and operational services.
The company said it has also adjusted delivery fees for certain orders delivered by car to better reflect rising operating costs faced by drivers.
Meanwhile, Grab is providing relief through incentives and rebates for drivers and riders across Southeast Asia. According to chief executive Anthony Tan, these measures include spot bonuses, incentive rebates and petrol vouchers in markets where fuel prices are not regulated.
Grab is also exploring longer-term solutions, including collaboration with governments, fuel providers and electric-vehicle companies to reduce dependence on petrol and protect driver earnings from future energy shocks.
Fuel Prices Pressuring the Gig Economy
Fuel costs represent a major expense for gig-economy drivers who rely on cars or motorcycles for ride-hailing and delivery services. As prices rise, drivers face shrinking profit margins unless platforms increase fares, offer incentives or introduce subsidies.
Some Southeast Asian governments are also considering policy responses. For example, the Philippines has explored temporary measures such as four-day work weeks to help reduce fuel consumption during periods of high prices.
Long-Term Shift Toward Sustainable Mobility
Industry observers say rising fuel costs may accelerate interest in electric mobility and alternative transport solutions in Southeast Asia.
Companies such as Oyika, a Singapore-based provider of battery-swapping solutions for electric motorcycles, are promoting electric mobility as a way to reduce reliance on petrol and lower operating costs for riders and delivery drivers.
As fuel price volatility persists, mobility platforms are expected to continue experimenting with financial incentives, partnerships and technological solutions to ensure drivers and riders remain financially sustainable in the gig economy.
