Rail-road combined transport in France continued its recovery in 2025 but the record levels of 2022 have yet to be regained, according to annual figures published by industry body, the GNTC. Traffic, expressed in tonne-kilometres transported and in train-kilometres, increased by +3.2% and +4.7% respectively on 2024.
Growth follows on from the rebound observed in 2024, which produced an increase in train-kilometres of 9.9% versus the previous year. In 2023, a decline of 18.7% was recorded compared to 2022. It is driven by several factors, the GNTC noted – sustained market demand, the commissioning of new routes, and the resumption of certain key routes after a lengthy closure, notably the rail line linking France and Italy through the Alps. However, despite the solid recovery in traffic, the record levels reached in 2022 have not yet been matched.
Almost 45% of total rail freight
“Once again, as has been observed on several occasions over the last 30 years, combined rail-road transport appears to ‘over-react’ compared to conventional freight, declining more sharply during periods of crisis and recovering more quickly during periods of growth,” the GNTC observed. Combined rail-road transport accounts for almost 45% of total rail freight in France, a proportion that is growing slowly year on year and continues to attract businesses seeking sustainable solutions.
River-road transport declines
Growth in the rail-road segment contrasts with a decline in river-road transport of -8.6% in terms of teus transported. This is mainly attributed to an unfavourable economic and geopolitical climate, increased competition from road transport, and structural constraints specific to river transport.
2026 outlook
Industry players are cautiously optimistic about 2026. The GNTC business climate index reveals that 77% are planning investments but only 50% are intend to recruit staff Whilst demand remains strong, several challenges persist: the quality of rail services, the availability of infrastructure, competitiveness against road transport, and economic and geopolitical uncertainties. 2026 is set to see the launch of new combi services, the opening of new terminals, including the one in Dunkirk and work aimed at improving the performance of existing ones.
