Singapore transport fares to rise 7pc from Dec 26, adults paying up to 13 cents more as govt adds S$200m subsidy

Singapore's public transport fares are set to rise by seven percent starting December 26, 2026, according to the Public Transport Council (PTC). The rise is attributed to increasing energy prices resulting from conflicts in the West Asia region. The PTC's 2026 Fare Review Exercise report indicates that the increase is less than half of the maximum allowable adjustment.

Adult commuters using a card will face an additional 13 cents per journey, while students, seniors, and persons with disabilities will see a five-cent increase. Cash payments will see a 20-cent extra charge for adults and a 10-cent increase for others. PTC Chairperson Janet Ang expressed concern over the impact of fare adjustments on households managing higher day-to-day expenses, emphasizing the balance between keeping fares affordable and ensuring the system's financial sustainability.

The Singapore government is set to provide an additional S$200 million (RM638 million) in fare subsidies for 2027, complementing the more than S$2 billion already allocated annually for public transport operating subsidies and capital expenditures. The PTC will closely monitor fare affordability to ensure the system remains accessible and sustainable in the long term.