Compromise on the table: Train ticket prices could rise 6%, not 12%, next year

The price of train tickets may increase by less than planned next year. After negotiations between NS, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, and the Cabinet, a compromise is now on the table, sources close to the negotiations confirmed after reporting by AD. If the agreement holds within the government coalition, which is not yet certain, train tickets will become 6 percent more expensive in 2025

That is still a significant price increase, but without the new agreements, ticket prices would increase by almost 12 percent. The Dutch railway company has been struggling since the coronavirus period. The number of passengers decreased significantly due to the pandemic but did not return to the old level afterward. In the meantime, costs have continued to increase, partly due to higher wage costs.

State Secretary Chris Jansen (Public Transport and Environment) already wrote to parliament on Friday that he was working on a “structural solution” to limit fare increases.

In the compromise, the government will contribute around 40 million euros next year to reduce the price increase. NS itself must also contribute 40 million euros from its own resources. Passengers will still receive part of the bill. The 6 percent that is being discussed includes inflation correction.

The coalition parties are critical of NS. It remains to be seen how the plan will be received by the factions.