Afrosiyob train fares expected to rise again

High-speed train service, Afrosiyob, has not turned a profit since its launch, according to Zufar Narzullaev, Board Chairman of Uzbekistan Railways. In 2023 alone, the service reported losses amounting to 238 billion UZS. Narzullaev shared this information during the 58th plenary session of the Senate.

Despite its popularity, the Afrosiyob train has struggled financially, with Narzullaev noting that high-speed rail tickets globally, particularly in Europe, tend to be more expensive than airfares. However, ticket prices for regular trains in Uzbekistan are regulated by a fixed tariff.

To address the ongoing financial challenges, Uzbekistan Railways plans to introduce a demand-based ticket pricing system for the Afrosiyob and other high-speed trains starting January 1, 2025. Similar to airline pricing, ticket costs will fluctuate based on demand. Meanwhile, fares for standard trains will continue to be regulated in coordination with the Ministry of Economy and Finance.

Earlier this year, on January 20, 2024, Uzbekistan Railways raised prices for tickets on high-speed electric trains, including Afrosiyob, Sharq, Nasaf, and O’zbekiston, by 20%. Additionally, on May 15, 2024, Afrosiyob’s ticket prices were increased by 20% for economy class, 30% for business class, and 40% for VIP class.