International News Update: Germany Bars Foreign Countries from Issuing Tickets for Entry into the Nation (Berlin)
The Association of German Transport Companies has warned of a significant funding gap of around 800 million euros for the Germany ticket in 2026. This looming deficit has become a pressing issue at the upcoming transport ministers' conference in Munich.
The Germany ticket, introduced in May 2023, allows for nationwide travel in regional and local public transport at a current price of 58 euros. However, the ticket's price has already risen from its initial monthly cost of 49 euros, increasing to 58 euros on January 1, 2025.
In a twist of events, the black-red federal government had agreed in its coalition contract that the price for passengers would remain unchanged until 2029. Yet, the funding gap persists, with the federal government and the states currently each providing 1.5 billion euros per year to support the Germany ticket.
Berlin's Transport Senator, Ute Bonde, has ruled out the possibility of the federal states contributing more money to fund the Germany ticket. She expressed hope that after the transport ministers' conference, it will be clear what price will apply from January 1, 2026, for the Germany ticket.
Detlef Neuß, the chairman of the passenger association Pro Bahn, has accused the transport ministers of breaking their promise regarding price stability for the Germany ticket. He considers a price of 62 euros, a figure currently under discussion for the coming year, to be too much for the Germany ticket price.
Meanwhile, the Saxony state government has taken measures to secure funding for the Germany ticket through state-level regulations and by providing compensation payments to local public transport providers. This approach could serve as an example for other states and municipalities, which, according to Bonde, do not have the financial means to contribute more to the funding of the Germany ticket.
Around 14 million people use the Germany ticket for nationwide travel, making it a popular choice among commuters. Despite the ticket being often cheaper than regional monthly tickets, causing revenue losses for transport companies and transport associations, its popularity continues to grow.
As the transport ministers gather in Munich, the funding gap for the Germany ticket remains a pressing issue. The outcome of the conference could shape the future of this popular travel option for millions of Germans.
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