Rail freight volumes in Poland have decreased by 3,2 per cent in 2023. According to the Polish national statistics agency, total volumes reached approximately 230 million tonnes. The rail market suffers from slowed down European industrial and construction activity.
Total rail freight volumes in Poland decreased from approximately 237 million tonnes in 2022 to 230 million tonnes last year. All transport modalities saw a decline in volumes, except for road transportation. Transport volumes via road grew from 284,2 million tonnes in 2022 to 287,7 million tonnes in 2023. Overall, Polish infrastructure transported 570,3 million tonnes of cargo last year.
Polish rail freight figures have been stagnant for a number of years amid a weak European economy. Industrial and construction activity has slowed down in recent years and consumer behaviour is cautious. In the coming months, Poland expects rail freight volumes to decline further as the international demand for coal drops in the spring and summer months.
Beyond macroeconomics
At the same time, the decline can not be attributed entirely to macroeconomic factors. Earlier, a representative of the Polish Independent Railway Carriers’ Association pointed out to Railfreight.com that cautious use of EU funding, high track access charges and staff shortages also contribute to a loss of competitiveness and subsequent difficulties on the market.
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