Asian Tech Press (Aug 24) -- Chinese ride-hailing giant DiDi Global Inc. (DIDI) has suspended plans to launch in Britain and continental Europe, the Daily Telegraph reported Monday.

Staff engaged in the planned opening of the business were told they could face layoffs, the report said. On the other hand, Didi has halted hiring in the U.K., delaying its launch plans by at least 12 months.

This comes on the heels of news that Didi's expansion in Europe will be suspended for at least a year. Didi has not commented on the news.

It is reported that the first step of Didi's overseas expansion began with the cooperation with Brazilian ride-hailing company 99 in 2018. After that, it developed faster in Latin America, and also entered Australia, Japan, Russia and other regions.

As of May this year, Didi provides ride-hailing services, car and bike rental and car sharing services in 15 countries and regions around the world.