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On 4 June, the CLECAT Rail Logistics Institute convened for discussions on European rail freight related topics including initiatives that support the quality and performance of rail freight and combined transport. CLECAT presented the results of a survey on quality in rail freight to a guest from DG MOVE. Findings underscored that freight forwarders would like to use more rail freight transport. However, they identified several obstacles hindering its use, including unreliable schedules, ETA’s, and insufficient connections or services. Concerns about neglected infrastructure and the need for more investment. Following the presentation of the survey, members engaged in a productive exchange of views on how to improve the quality of rail freight in the EU.

Members also discussed legislative developments concerning the Rail Capacity Regulation and the revision of the Combined Transport Directive. The Belgian Presidency has recently published a progress report on the Combined Transport Directive, as Member States did not reach an agreement for a General Approach. There will be a need for further discussions to come to a compromise agreement which is acceptable for Member States and the freight sector. On a more positive note, Member States reached an agreement on the Rail Capacity Regulation, with a General Approach compromise set to be approved at the Transport Council in Luxembourg on 18 June.