Italy to Raise Highway Tolls Starting 2026 Despite Transport Ministry Objections

Italy’s Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has announced an increase in highway tolls across the country, effective from January 1, 2026, a decision that has sparked widespread political and public controversy even before its implementation.

According to the official statement, tolls on most Italian highways will increase by an average of around 1.5% as part of a pricing mechanism linked to annual fee adjustments based on the projected inflation rate for 2026, a measure automatically applied following a ruling by the Italian Constitutional Court.

The ministry noted that the highest increase, around 1.9%, will apply to the Salerno–Pompeii–Naples route, while other roads, such as the Brenner route connecting Northern Europe to Italy, are expected to see an increase of approximately 1.46%.

The announcement came after a direct objection from Italy’s Transport Minister Matteo Salvini, who criticized the decision as an additional burden on drivers amid current economic pressures. However, the judicial authorities decided to implement the increases based on the terms of existing concession contracts with operating companies.

This increase affects local drivers, commuters, and visitors alike, including the commercial transport and tourism sectors, as the highway network serves as the country’s main land transportation artery, especially during travel seasons and holidays.

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