European Federation of Inland Ports calls for a Stronger EU Transport Budget to Ensure Connectivity, Sustainability, and Resilience

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European Federation of Inland Ports calls for a Stronger EU Transport Budget to Ensure Connectivity, Sustainability, and Resilience

The European Federation of Inland Ports (EFIP) has joined with over 45 European organisations to call on the General Affairs and Economic and Financial Affairs Ministers to preserve and strengthen a dedicated European transport funding instrument in the future EU budget. The letter “A competitive and resilient Europe requires a stronger EU transport budget” highlights the role of a modern connected transport network in the success of the European Single Market.

Inland Ports: The Backbone of Europe’s Hinterland Supply Chains and Connectivity

Inland ports are vital hubs connecting Europe’s waterways, rail, and road networks. They enable the seamless flow of goods across the continent, ensuring efficient and sustainable logistics operations that support industrial competitiveness, economic growth, and territorial cohesion. As Europe faces rising geopolitical tensions and the urgent need to transition to a net-zero economy, a robust and well-funded transport network is more essential than ever.

Addressing Climate and Geopolitical Challenges

“Strengthening the EU transport budget is not just a matter of economic pragmatism but a strategic necessity,” said Turi Fiorito (EFIP Director). “Inland ports are crucial for reducing Europe’s carbon footprint, enabling multimodal transport solutions, and maintaining critical supply chains. Without dedicated European transport funding, efforts to create a resilient and sustainable transport network risk fragmentation and inefficiency.”

As Europe navigates geopolitical tensions, inland ports play a pivotal role in ensuring the security and sovereignty of supply chains, particularly for critical raw materials. They also enhance military mobility by providing essential links within the European transport network.

Investing for a Competitive and Green Future

The transition to a net-zero industry and society hinges on a well-integrated and efficient transport network. Inland ports are indispensable in linking emerging production hubs with their markets sustainably and efficiently. By supporting multimodal solutions that prioritize environmental sustainability, inland ports contribute directly to achieving Europe’s climate goals.

EFIP urges the Member States and the European Commission to:

  • Preserve and strengthen a dedicated European transport funding instrument.
  • Prioritize investments with high European added value that support connectivity, sustainability, and resilience.
  • Maintain a centralized and coordinated approach to transport infrastructure investment.