Transnatur changes partner in the Stuttgart area
Mar 12, 2026 at 3:03 PM
The development of cross-Alpine freight transport shows a concerning trend in 2025. According to the semester report published by the Federal Office of Transport (BAV) on March 12, 2026, rail has once again lost market shares to road transport. The share of rail in total cross-Alpine freight transport fell to 68.6 percent, representing a decline of 1.7 percentage points compared to the previous year. While the number of trucks traveling through the Alps remained constant at 960,000, rail transport recorded a decrease of 7.5 percent.
Causes of the Decline
The causes of this decline are manifold. A significant factor is the inadequate quality and reliability of rail freight transport, particularly along the European north-south corridors. Construction sites and disruptions in Germany have further exacerbated the situation. These infrastructural problems, combined with a strained economic environment, have made rail transport less attractive for transport companies.
Federal Council Plans Countermeasures
To counteract this development, the Federal Council announced in the transfer report at the end of 2025 that it would extend the temporary operating contributions for combined transport until 2030. The corresponding motions from the transport commissions of the National Council and the Council of States have been submitted for approval. These measures aim to provide transport companies with long-term planning and investment security. Additionally, temporary financial incentives are planned to mitigate the effects of the intended discontinuation of the „Rolling Road“ starting in December 2025.
Another step by the Federal Council is to promote a rapid modernization of rail infrastructure in neighboring countries. The Federal Council will advocate for well-coordinated construction work internationally and ensure that sufficiently efficient diversion options for rail freight transport are available. These measures are intended to strengthen the competitiveness of rail transport and increase the overall attractiveness of cross-Alpine freight transport.
