Overview

• SNCB named Spain’s CAF preferred bidder for a framework deal up to €1.695 billion to supply commuter trains with a total capacity of 170,000 seats, including an initial order for 54,000 seats.
• Belgium’s Council of State annulled SNCB’s February decision over inadequate selection justification, prompting a more detailed award process.
• The final contract will only proceed once CAF confirms compliance with international human rights standards following criticism over its Jerusalem tram project.
• SNCB requires CAF to engage Belgian suppliers to support domestic manufacturing under political pressure favoring Alstom’s four local plants employing around 1,900 workers.
• Basque union LAB called on CAF to channel the contract’s employment and investment benefits to its facilities in the region, emphasizing job quality and generational renewal.