Brussels – October 08, 2026
ALLRAIL welcomes the European Parliament’s call for a fairer, more competitive rail market as the foundation for Europe’s high-speed network.
On 5 October, the European Parliament’s Transport and Tourism (TRAN) Committee adopted its high-speed rail report, welcoming the EU Commission’s High-Speed Plan.
The report recognises that delivering the plan requires more than just infrastructure investment and planning: market reforms are essential to build an efficient and competitive EU high-speed rail network.
The report’s call for equal financing conditions for new entrants and state-owned operators is particularly welcome. Independent operators must be able to finance all types of rolling stock on non-discriminatory terms – in order to invest, expand services and compete effectively with state-backed operators.
- The European Investment Bank (EIB) has a central role to play. The Commission’s ambition to strengthen competition in passenger rail must be matched by a clear EIB commitment to improving access to rolling stock finance for new entrants.
- Targeted EU funding schemes for new entrant rail operators are also needed to support investment on equal terms.
Equal commercial freedom must come with equal commercial conditions.
ALLRAIL also welcomes the Committee’s call for fair access to second-hand rolling stock. A transparent and accessible market would:
- make better use of existing trains,
- enable operators to offer more passenger rail services.
Transparent and non-discriminatory access must also extend to service facilities, particularly maintenance facilities.
“Europe’s high-speed rail ambitions depend on both infrastructure and competition.
The European Parliament’s call must now translate into concrete measures.”
says Nick Brooks, Secretary General of ALLRAIL.