EP REPORT: RELAUNCH FREIGHT TRANSPORT AFTER COVID-19
The European Parliament’s Research Service issued this month a report on the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on freight transport. It provides an overview of the measures taken at EU and national level to support the free flow of goods, predicts the emerging developments and trends of the industry and proposes policy recommendations to address the challenges emerging from the crisis.
The report notes that international trade fell by 19% in the second quarter of 2020, due to border closures and lockdowns leading to supply chain disruptions. Maritime and air freight suffered the most from the outbreak, with closures of airports and ports in certain regions and the shortages of seafarers worldwide. Road and rail freight performed relatively better compared to other modes.
The report highlights the measures that have been taken at EU and national level to relieve some of the burden faced by the freight transport industry. Apart from fiscal measures to support the sector, the ‘Green Lanes’ were pivotal in ensuring the continuous flow of essential goods by road transport between Member States. Other measures waiving administrative requirements for rail and air transport helped reduce constraints on rail and airport transport, as well as the easing of slot obligations for aviation specifically.
Several recommendations are made to policymakers to tackle the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic: This includes further digitalisation and funding to businesses intending to invest in digital technologies and skills. The report also recommends revising State aid guidelines and initiatives to address the shortage of drivers in the road sector.