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On 28 April, the European Commission presented an action plan outlining specific simplification measures, aimed at addressing regulatory inconsistencies, overlaps and excessive complexity across key sectors. Transport is identified as a priority area alongside climate, environment and the free movement of goods and services. The initiative forms part of a broader effort to streamline EU legislation and improve the functioning of the internal market. The Commission highlights the need for better coordination between national authorities, more harmonised interpretation of rules and the development of interoperable digital systems.

The action plan also identifies specific areas where simplification efforts may be pursued. In aviation, certain obligations under the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation are expected to be reviewed, reflecting concerns regarding their practical implementation. In the road sector, the forthcoming revision of CO₂ standards for heavy-duty vehicles is expected to include measures to streamline monitoring and reporting requirements. The effective rollout of the electronic freight transport information (eFTI) framework is expected to play a key role in reducing administrative burdens and facilitating more efficient data exchange.

Furthermore, delays in the deployment of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) are cited as an example of the gap between regulatory ambition and operational delivery. Challenges related to data access and interoperability are also identified as key barriers to a more efficient and integrated transport system.

CLECAT notes that whereas simplification is welcome, fragmented enforcement, in areas such as road transport, aviation security and digital reporting, continues to generate substantial administrative burdens. These include multiple documentation requirements, repeated data submissions and the need to verify compliance across complex subcontracting chains, often leading to inefficiencies without improving compliance outcomes. CLECAT also highlights the need for less new legislation. Recent proposals, such as the Clean Corporate Vehicles initiative, have raised concerns in this regard, particularly in terms of reporting obligations and cross-border applicability for logistics operators.