Taiwan High Speed Rail Fares: Will Ticket Prices Rise?

The Government Reviews Basic Fares, Leaving Room for Potential Price Hikes on the High-Speed Rail Between Taipei and Kaohsiung.

The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) in Taiwan annually reviews the basic fare rates for the High Speed Rail (HSR), taking into account contractual obligations and the latest consumer price index. Sources indicate that the government-approved basic fare rate for this year will remain at the same level as last year: NT$4.551 per person per kilometer. The MOTC is expected to announce this by April 1st.

While the HSR did not increase fares last year, there's still potential for a NT$230 increase on the Taipei-Kaohsiung route. Adding to the situation, the arrival of the new generation of HSR trains is anticipated in the second half of 2026, which will likely lead to a peak in capital expenditure requirements. Regarding the possibility of a fare increase this year, Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation (THSRC) stated that they will carefully consider various factors and conduct a comprehensive evaluation before presenting a proposal to the board of directors for a final decision.

According to the contract with THSRC, the MOTC reviews and announces the government-approved basic HSR fare rates each year, considering the changes in the "Taiwan Area Consumer Price Index." Adjustments are triggered when the cumulative change in the consumer price index reaches 3% or more, after which THSRC reviews and sets its own fare rates. This year's approved government basic fare standard remains unchanged from last year, at NT$4.551 per person per kilometer, with the MOTC set to announce this by April 1st.