Taipei Rapid Transit Corp. (TRTC) Makes Key Announcements on Fare Structure and Cashback Adjustments
Taipei, Taiwan – Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation (TRTC), the operator of Taipei Metro, has confirmed that the fare structure will remain unchanged for the foreseeable future. However, starting in 2025, the company plans to reduce the cashback rates for its frequent passengers.
This announcement comes amid rising operational costs, including increased electricity rates, salaries, and basic wages, which could lead to financial challenges for the company in the near future. TRTC aims to ensure the continued sustainability of Taipei’s metro services while maintaining safety and service quality for commuters.
Key Changes to Be Implemented in 2025
- Fare Structure: Taipei Metro ticket fares will remain the same for the time being.
- Cashback Adjustments: Frequent passenger cashback rates, which currently range from 10% to 30%, will be reduced to 5% to 15%. The new policy will take effect in the first half of 2025.
- Impact: Approximately 300,000 regular passengers are expected to be affected by the cashback reduction.
Why Is Taipei Metro Making These Changes?
According to TRTC, the decision comes as part of a strategic effort to address a projected deficit in 2025. With rising operational costs, including higher electricity rates and increasing wages in the transport sector, the company faces a financial gap that could affect service quality and safety in the long term.
Despite years of financial challenges in its core business, TRTC has proactively explored side businesses to help fund its operations. However, ongoing costs of operating the metro system, which are expected to reach around NT$130 billion over the next 30 years, necessitate these adjustments.
TRTC also noted that the cost of running the metro has been steadily increasing since its inception in 1996. Over the years, there has been no fare hike, even though the consumer price index has risen by 34% and wages in the transportation sector have increased by over 50%.
Frequent Passenger Program: What’s Staying the Same?
- Monthly TPasses: The NT$1,200 monthly TPasses will remain unaffected by the new changes. Commuters who utilize this pass will not experience any changes in benefits.
- Additional Benefits: Despite the cashback rate reduction, TRTC continues to offer flexible benefits and aims to enhance the commuter experience.
FAQs:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Will ticket fares increase in 2025? | No, TRTC confirmed that ticket fares will remain the same. |
| How will the cashback changes affect regular commuters? | The cashback rate will be reduced from 10-30% to 5-15%, impacting around 300,000 passengers. |
| What are the reasons for the cashback reduction? | Increased operational costs, including electricity, salaries, and wage hikes, led to the decision. |
| Will the TPasses remain the same? | Yes, monthly TPasses will not be affected and will remain at NT$1,200. |
| How is TRTC addressing financial challenges? | TRTC has expanded into side businesses to help fund its metro operations, but ongoing operational costs are significant. |
