Italian court blocks Uber services in Italy, citing unfair competition

ROME (Reuters) – A court on Friday blocked the use of smartphone apps for Uber (UBER.UL) cars in Italy, ruling they constituted unfair competition.

The court said Uber could not use its Black, Lux, Suv, X, XL, Select and Van phone apps or promote or advertise its services in Italy, according to a court document.

The court ruled in favor of a complaint filed by Italy’s main traditional taxi associations.

Uber’s Italian division said in a statement that it was “shocked” by the decision and would appeal.

(Reporting by Giulia Segreti, editing by Philip Pullella)