Source: European Parliament
1. In 2023, with the Greening Freight Package[1], the Commission proposed key actions to support modal shift in freight transport. The Commission is confident that these initiatives will contribute to boosting rail freight and encourages the co-legislators to adopt them. Ongoing work to speed up the deployment of the European Rail Traffic Management System, prepare the transition to Digital Automatic Coupling and modernise train drivers’ certification requirements should allow smooth train running across networks and support the increase of rail freight’s market share. The 2024 revision of the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) Regulation[2] will bring about much needed improvements in the rail network, including for freight.
2. The new TEN-T Regulation sets out ambitious infrastructure and operational requirements and deadlines to enhance rail freight in Europe. Member States will have to seek a formal approval of the Commission for any deviation. Furthermore, the Commission together with the European TEN-T Coordinators will remain in constant contact with the Member States and the relevant stakeholders, monitor closely the deployment of infrastructure and regularly report on progress made.
3. Despite substantial EU contributions to rail projects, notably EUR 32 billion through the Connecting Europe Facility, EUR 18.5 billion through Cohesion policy funds, and roughly EUR 40 billion through the Recovery and Resilience Facility, the investments remain below the needs. Therefore, it will remain important to provide support to projects with high EU added value such as infrastructure improvements along cross-border lines. Attracting private investment and reinforcing cooperation between Member States are also key.