SNCB transport offer shrinks by 3 million kilometers in 2025

Belgian railway company SNCB experienced a significant reduction in its transport services in 2025, with a decrease of nearly 4% compared to the prior year. This decline contrasts sharply with the company's stated ambition to increase its transport offer by 10% over the next decade under its public service contract.

The report highlights several key issues contributing to this shortfall. A high rate of absenteeism among train drivers, a substantial number of strikes, and rolling stock availability falling below projections were cited as primary reasons for the decrease. In 2025, the total service produced measured 79.2 million train-kilometers, down from 82.4 million train-kilometers in 2024, a reduction of approximately 3.2 million train-kilometers.

In response to this performance in 2025, SNCB has initiated a series of measures aimed at ensuring a sustainable level of production. Looking ahead, the company reaffirms its commitment to its long-term objective. "For 2026, SNCB's ambition remains the same: within the framework of executing the public service contract, progressively develop the rail service to achieve the planned growth of 10% by 2032," the company stated.

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For 2026, SNCB's ambition remains the same: within the framework of executing the public service contract, progressively develop the rail service to achieve the planned growth of 10% by 2032.