Starting in March, the ownership of the passenger train fleet funded by the state will gradually shift from VR to Suomen Ostoliikennekalusto Oy. This transition aims to facilitate the entry of new operators into the Finnish rail market, according to Transport and Communications Minister Lulu Ranne. The transfer will include both currently operational trains and upcoming new local trains, rail buses, and sleeping and car coaches.

The entire business transaction is valued at approximately 250 million euros, with the economic impact on VR expected to be neutral. In March, both existing and future local traffic trains will transfer to the new owner, while additional newly ordered sleeping and car coaches from VR will also be handed over later. Decisions regarding the necessary traction vehicles for the purchased services will be made in due course, marking a significant change in Finland's rail transportation landscape.

The Finnish government, through its Cabinet, will determine the capital return within this year, ensuring the financial neutrality of this arrangement for VR. This strategic move is part of a broader initiative to enhance competition and improve services in the rail sector, potentially benefiting passengers and freight transport alike by introducing more choices and better efficiency in the market.