MODAL GROUP emphasizes rail freight strategy in France

The MODAL GROUP has highlighted the strategic importance of rail freight transport for France in a recent statement. In light of the challenges in multimodal infrastructure, the group has outlined four priorities to promote the shift of traffic volumes and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

France plans to increase the share of rail freight transport in total traffic volume to 18% by 2030. This measure is part of a strategy to electrify the economy, aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels. According to the company, rail freight transport, which is predominantly electrically powered, plays a central role in the country’s energy sovereignty.

Infrastructure challenges

Despite these ambitious goals, France is facing a shortage of multimodal terminals, according to the MODAL GROUP, which hinders the shift of traffic volumes. The company warns that without sufficient investments and a faster implementation of infrastructure projects, the major French ports could fall behind in competition with logistics centers in Northern Europe. These centers are already closely connected to European transport corridors and could thus gain a competitive advantage.

To achieve the desired goals, the MODAL GROUP has defined four concrete priorities:

• Implementation of the investment program for freight transport
• Recognition of multimodal terminals as strategic infrastructures and gaining the support of the ports
• Connecting the terminals to the railway and waterway corridors
• Mobilization of private financial resources

„France has all the prerequisites to become a key player in CO₂-free freight transport in Europe, but must now concretely advance the expansion of its multimodal infrastructure.“
– Bernard Meï, Chairman of the MODAL GROUP

www.modal-group.fr