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The European Parliament’s Transport and Tourism (TRAN) Committee has issued a draft opinion on the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), led by Rapporteur Rosa María Serrano Sierra (S&D). The opinion underlines the importance of maintaining strong EU funding for transport infrastructure, particularly through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), which plays a crucial role in developing high-performing transport, energy, and digital networks across the EU.

Ms Serrano Sierra emphasized the need to continue investing in transport decarbonization as a key component of European competitiveness. She also called for the alignment of climate objectives with social justice, advocating for increased support to the Social Climate Fund and the Just Transition Fund. In addition, she stressed the importance of making the transport sector more attractive and securing further EU investment in sustainable tourism.

While broadly supporting the draft opinion, Shadow Rapporteurs signalled their intention to propose amendments covering critical areas such as the resilience of transport infrastructure amid current geopolitical uncertainties, the timely completion of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), transparent procurement in the transport sector, increased digitalisation, and ensuring stable, coordinated investment in transport projects.

Parallel to the TRAN Committee’s work, the European Commission has launched a public consultation on the next MFF, following its Communication “The Road to the Next Multiannual Financial Framework.” Although transport infrastructure is not a primary focus, this consultation presents an opportunity for stakeholders to advocate for strong and dedicated EU funding for transport projects.  The consultation, which runs until 7 May 2025, invites input across various policy areas. In a recent joint statement stakeholders, including CLECAT, have expressed concerns that the CEF could be at risk of budget cuts in the upcoming MFF.