The liberalization of passenger rail transport in Spain in 2019 resulted in a positive impact of 578 million euros in 2023. This change introduced new companies to the sector, leading to increased competition and benefits for consumers.

Consumers were the main beneficiaries, enjoying a surplus of 343 million euros due to lower prices and more travel options resulting from competition among companies.

Adif Alta Velocidad saw a revenue increase of 148 million euros in 2023 in liberalized corridors compared to 2019. The total revenue of the three operators combined did not surpass Renfe's 2019 revenue by more than 10%, despite a 60% increase in services.

In 2023, passengers had more choices with three operators available for 42% of users and two for 19%. Prices decreased by around 40% in routes where three operators competed, and companies offered economical services and special rates for children.

The demand for high-speed rail increased significantly, with 31 million passengers in 2023, 10 million more than in 2019. Alternative companies captured 26% of passengers, with the rail's modal share against planes rising to 85% in competitive corridors.

Despite the positive impact on high-speed services, conventional long-distance services lost over 2 million passengers between 2019 and 2023. The entry into the rail market proved costly for operators, with most showing negative results.