Competitive tendering phases and experiences in Sweden and Norway

In Finland, state arranges PSO train traffic which currently includes commuter train traffic outside the HRT area, night train traffic and rail bus traffic on non-electrified railway sections. In addition, PSO traffic includes some Intercity and Pendolino train services. The current LVM/VR direct procurement agreement for the purchase of passenger rail services is in force from 2022 to 2030. VR is responsible for the operations as a whole, bearing risks such as box office, cost level, fleet and personnel. In Finland the passenger rail market is planned to open for 2030s in order to increase competition. One part of market opening is competitive tendering of PSO traffic. The Government Programme of Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has specified that the Government will increase effective competition in the rail market and facilitate access to the market. The Government will create a long-term outlook for increasing domestic rail transport capacity and investment. In connection with the implementation of the Government Programme, Traficom is building a knowledge base of rail market and passenger rail services. Background information on the progress of the project and a report on the passenger rail market and services of the 2030s, completed in January 2025, can be found at the link below. https://www.hsl.fi/en/hsl/competitive-tendering-of-passenger-rail-transport-in-finland