THE taxi flag-down rate across most of the city will increase by 1 yuan (16 US cents) from October 8, Shanghai authorities said yesterday.

The cost applies to the first 3 kilometers of all journeys. Currently set at 13 yuan, plus a 1 yuan fuel surcharge, the new rate will be 14 yuan, with no surcharge. In effect, therefore, it will be unchanged.

The cost of rides beyond 3km will change, however.