Ministry: Half-price train tickets cost Lithuania 3.45 million euros

The Lithuanian Ministry of Transport announced that a 50% discount on train tickets, implemented in April and May 2026, incurred a cost of 3.45 million euros for the state, including value-added tax. This initiative aimed to mitigate the impact of increased fuel prices.

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50% discount on train tickets, valid in April-May 2026, cost the state 3.45 million euros (with VAT).

During the discount period, "LTG Link," the passenger transport company of the state-owned "Lietuvos Geležinkeliai" (Lithuanian Railways) group, reported that over 1.07 million passengers utilized the reduced fares. This resulted in a 23% surge in passenger traffic compared to the same period in the previous year. Notably, nearly 34,600 individuals traveled by train for the first time in April-May 2026.

The decision to halve ticket prices was made in late March by Minister of Transport Jurgis Taminskas and "LTG Link." It was a direct response to escalating fuel costs, influenced by the military conflict in the Middle East. The discounted tickets were available from April 1 and the promotion concluded on June 1.

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The company's data shows that over 1.07 million passengers used the discount during this period, and passenger traffic increased by 23% compared to the same period last year.

Taminskas indicated that a decision on whether to extend the discount will be made in late summer. This evaluation will consider the effectiveness of the measure, the energy sector's situation, and planned railway electrification projects.

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The decision to reduce train ticket prices in Lithuania – a 50% discount was applied – was made in response to rising fuel prices due to the military conflict in the Middle East.