Brussels, 04th of June 2026
AERRL, CER, ERFA, UIP, UIRR and UNIFE have come together around a pragmatic plan. The key is to not withdraw the CTD and keep the current CT definition under Directive 92/106/EEC. This would be complemented by a review clause requiring the European Commission to present a targeted revision of the definition after 5 years, once key framework conditions – such as the External Cost Handbook and the full implementation of electronic freight transport information (eFTI) framework.
That means getting to work on four things:
- National Policy Frameworks that deliver binding cost reductions, support terminal development, improve last-mile connections, and create real incentives for modal shift — including the option to reduce or waive road tolls for CT road legs.
- Digitalisation aligning eFTI implementation with the CTD, Telematics TSI and other relevant systems, ensuring standardised identification of intermodal loading units, and improving transparency around national support measures.
- Transparency and market access strengthening the EU intermodal information gateway, improving visibility on terminal services and capacity, reducing barriers to entry for new operators and assess the feasibility of digital platforms displaying available CT services.
- Driving-ban exemptions for CT road legs, with targeted safeguards to protect rail competitiveness and prevent misuse for long-haul road transport.
Combined Transport represents up to 50% of rail freight tonne-kilometres in Europe. It grew 59% between 2010 and 2023 while overall rail freight declined. Withdrawing the Directive now would freeze investment, distort competition with road, and undermine Europe’s own resilience and decarbonisation goals.
Read the paper: