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Jan. 1 Bus Fare Hikes: La Plata’s Minimum $749, Mendoza’s Flat $1,400

Technical reviews show operating costs far exceed ticket prices, leaving governments to bridge the gap with subsidies plus targeted discounts.

Overview

  • La Plata implements a 4.5% update from January 1, taking the registered SUBE minimum to $749.72, with an unregistered minimum of $1,192.05 and a published distance-based fare scale.
  • In Greater Mendoza, the flat fare rises to $1,400 from January 1 after jumps to $1,000 in May and $1,200 in November, marking a 64.7% year‑over‑year increase that outpaces 2025 inflation near 30%.
  • EMoP’s recent hearing updated the average urban cost per kilometer to $4,081.95 and set a ‘technical fare’ of $1,980, while estimating about $4,495.66 would be needed for full self‑financing if current benefits continue.
  • Mendoza officials say over 60% of trips do not pay the full nominal fare thanks to social benefits, student and senior discounts, frequent‑user reductions, free transfers within 90 minutes, and off‑peak price cuts.
  • La Plata authorities say the adjustment follows an inflation‑tracking formula with a 2% add‑on, and local data note Mendoza’s fares previously surged 431% in 2024, keeping transport a major driver of living costs.