French national railway company SNCF generates €950 million in revenue during the first half of the year
In the first half of the year, French national railway company SNCF reported a €950 million profit, marking its eighth consecutive positive result. This success is largely attributed to the SNCF Voyageurs activity and high-speed rail services, TGV and Ouigo, which transported a total of 81.2 million passengers between January and June. This figure represents a 1.7% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
The profit, however, is not without controversy. Unions are criticising SNCF's management, viewing the investment as a form of state tax on SNCF's profits. The unions argue that the profits are the result of the work of railway workers.
Despite this criticism, SNCF is continuing its massive investment in its services. Evidenced by the testing of a space at Gare de l'Est designed for children and adults with autism, the company is committed to creating a more inclusive environment for all passengers.
The current investment plan for the maintenance and renewal of SNCF's railway network in 2025 allocates a total expenditure of €3.7 billion. This budget supports widespread infrastructure upgrading, including preparations for new-generation trains on metro and RER lines, and major works for the upcoming Grand Paris Express Line 15 Sud opening in late 2026.
Within this €3.7 billion, €2 billion is dedicated to SNCF Réseau for track and infrastructure works, €1.3 billion goes to RATP, and €360 million is from Île-de-France Mobilités’ 2023-27 budget.
Key projects under this plan include major track replacements and catenary installations on RER lines B, D, and E, the complete modernization of RER C, extensive tunnel reinforcements in central Paris, metro line closures for renewal works in preparation for new MF19 trains and train control system installations on several lines, the construction of new cleaning facilities and storage sidings on Line 3, and the tram network reconstruction at the Porte de Versailles terminus.
SNCF Réseau’s financing ability on investments is somewhat constrained, relying heavily on investment grants focused on capital expenditures (capex) for the rail network, according to SNCF group’s July 2025 report. This investment framework is part of a broader modernization effort aligning with upcoming operational needs and network expansions.
While the article does not mention any specific plans or announcements regarding further expansions or improvements in SNCF's services, it is clear that the company is focusing on vital infrastructure upgrades and metro/RER modernization to support new rolling stock and future network expansions. The investment plan aims to create a more efficient, modern, and accessible railway network for all passengers.
- The French aerospace industry, with SNCF as a significant player, is investing €3.7 billion in 2025 for the maintenance and renewal of SNCF's railway network.
- SNCF's investment plan also includes financing for business ventures outside the railway industry, such as the creation of a space at Gare de l'Est designed for people with autism.
- Despite criticism from unions about the profit earned by SNCF, the company is heavily investing in finance, allocating €2 billion to SNCF Réseau for track and infrastructure works alone.
