Infrastructure manager LFP Perthus, which operates the rail link between Spain and France through the Le Perthus tunnel, reached its highest activity level since commissioning in 2010, with 219 freight services recorded in June.
The company, jointly owned by Adif and SNCF, also reports record figures for total tonnes moved and average payload per train, consolidating an upward trend that has continued into July.
These results follow a first quarter affected by works at the Rubí tunnel, the principal bottleneck on the international corridor from Spain, which led to cancellations and a drop in traffic. Between January and May, 738 trains ran, down 9.4% year on year, with estimated losses of 40%–60% of booked paths.
Despite this, LFP Perthus maintains punctuality levels between 99.7% and 100%, and expects to recover 2026 volumes to levels comparable with 2025, provided no further external disruptions occur. Demand, supported by Franco-Spanish toll rebates, is at its highest since late 2025.
The gradual normalisation at the Rubí tunnel and the ramp-up of La Llagosta terminal, providing additional capacity and operational alternatives, are strengthening prospects for growth in international rail freight in the second half.