Renfe has been steering a long term strategic push for years, aiming to expand the reach of its high‑speed rail network beyond Spain. The plan contemplates international growth with a steady share of income coming from markets outside the home country, aligned with a bold five‑year trajectory. The AVE brand carries a strong reputation, often used to describe high‑speed rail in general as well as specific rail projects driven by public service obligations across Europe, the Americas, and Asia.
One of the early milestones on this path is the Barcelona to Lyon corridor and the Madrid to Marseille route, with a cautionary note that these might see development closely tied to market conditions. Paris remains a focal point in Renfe’s European strategy, where the company previously connected with SNCF for a decade and now anticipates renewed competition. In France, Renfe’s interest runs alongside nearby markets that share historical ties, including Turkey, and the leadership of Isaias Táboas has guided the ongoing strategy. The unilateral shift in ties with SNCF last year, replaced by a Renfe subsidiary strategy in some markets, illustrates the evolving nature of cross‑border rail relationships.
Deployment on the French network will hinge on regulatory pacing and security clearances that are issued line by line. The French authorities have established security and certification processes that govern access to various routes, with similar patterns seen across Spain. Operators such as Ouigo and Iryo already have broad reach through the wider network, highlighting the ease of destination reach once permissions are secured.
Most recently, the decision to establish Renfe Proyectos Internacionales as a trading umbrella marks a practical step for expanding into France. This entity will pave the way for contractual signings, market services, invoicing, and staff recruitment, facilitating smoother operations and a unified approach to international projects.
AVE travelers’ verdict: “You look for a price at most at high speed, because punctuality is guaranteed”
From Arabia to the United States and Mexico
Renfe’s first major international foray was in Saudi Arabia with a consortium building and operating the Haramain High Speed Railway between Mecca and Medina. The project, long in development since 2012, reached a significant milestone in March 2021, marking a turning point for the operator’s global footprint.
In Europe, Renfe stands as the majority shareholder in several ventures. Czech operator Leo Express contributes to two ongoing initiatives, including Rail Baltica, the cross‑Baltic corridor designed to connect the Baltic capitals with the broader European rail network. In the Americas, Renfe positions itself as a strategic partner in two major projects. The Central Texas entity collaborates on the Bulle Train concept linking Houston and Dallas Fort Worth, while in Mexico the Mayan Train project advances in partnership with Ineco and DB Engineering & Consulting.
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