13 May 2004 Press Release METROPOLITAN TRADING COMPANY TERMINATES THE USER AGREEMENT OF SA'S BIGGEST TAXI RANK WITH VARIOUS TAXI ASSOCIATIONS The Metropolitan Trading Company (MTC) is an independent company set up by The City of Johannesburg, to manage taxi ranks and markets on strict business lines for the benefit of all who use them and also for the sustainability of the City's assets. The Taxi Associations have over a period exceeding 6 months withhold payment to the MTC demanding that the management of this company organize a meeting for them with the Politicians. This behaviour is not acceptable by all stakeholders and is rejected as means to initiate talks. On the 11th May 2004 The Metropolitan Trading Company advised the operators that it has terminated the user agreement with various Taxi Associations operating from the Metro Mall with effect from 17th May 2004. The termination of the agreement with various Taxi Associations means that the Taxi operators will have no right to enter Metro Mall for the use of the Taxi Ranking facilities. The Associations have been advised of MTC's intentions. MTC intends using all resources at our disposal in ensuring that by the 17th May 2004 none of the affected Taxi Associations enter the ranking facilities. Operators have been advised to contact their Associations to check their position regarding the matter. A list of defaulting associations including the amount involved will be distributed on Thursday the 13th May 2004. Ends. THE METROPOLITAN TRADING COMPANY TEL : 011-833 7344 Nthatisi Modingoane Media Liaison Officer CITY OF JOHANNESBURG Tel: (011) 407 7354 Fax: 403 3494 Cell: 082 467 9228 E-mail: nthatisem@joburg.org.za