The performance of combined transport in Europe has been somewhat rising since the beginning of 2024. The sector registered a 1,76% growth in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year, according to the latest report from UIRR.
This latest data highlights a somewhat positive trend in combined transport. After a 10% decrease between 2022 and 2023, the sector has recorded growing figures for three of the past five quarters. The past couple of years have been quite tough for the combined transport sector, especially due to the closures of the Gotthard and Frejus axes in August 2023.
After the full reopening of the Gotthard Base Tunnel and the recovery after the extreme weather which hit Valencia in 2024 and the reopening of the Frejus Railway in March 2025, the sector might now enjoy some more stability. However, the general rail renovation plan undertaken by Germany, is causing long closures along many important rail lines, creating difficulties for freight trains.