Европа

In recent months, CER Cargo Group has been actively implementing a strategy to develop international rail transport services and expand its geographic footprint. The company has launched its first train on Romania’s railway network, thereby officially incorporating the country into its route network. Wilhelm Patzner, CEO of CER Cargo Group, emphasized that the company does not limit itself to plans and presentations but consistently executes a strategy focused on efficient cross-border transport across Europe.

In February, CLdN announced the acquisition of Samskip’s UK and Irish operations in the door-to-door and quay-to-quay segments. The transaction aims to enhance freight transport capabilities for customers moving cargo between mainland Europe, Ireland, and the UK by leveraging an expanded route network and increased sailing frequencies. Following regulatory approval, the company plans to integrate these new destinations and boost the flexibility of its logistics chains.

At the Port of Rotterdam, six railway companies – Rail Force One, HSL Netherlands, DB Cargo Nederland, RTB Cargo, LTE, and Rail Cargo Group – have signed an agreement establishing a new level of operational cooperation on the port’s railway network. This initiative is being implemented under the leadership of the Port of Rotterdam Authority and aims to enhance process efficiency while reducing the number of canceled train runs caused by infrastructure congestion.

Finnlines is expanding its service between the ports of Rosslare and Zeebrugge by introducing a second Ro-Ro ferry, the M/S Lismore, to the route. The vessel is scheduled to commence operations on May 28, complementing the M/S Finnwave, which is already serving the route. This decision stems from the sustained growth in demand for direct transport links between Ireland and mainland Europe. With the launch of this second vessel, the company will increase sailing frequency, enhance scheduling flexibility, and boost the route’s overall carrying capacity.

The Belfast Harbour Commissioners have unveiled a large-scale port infrastructure modernization program spanning the period from 2025 to 2050, titled “Horizons of Opportunity.” The total investment amounts to approximately £1.3 billion ($1.74 billion). The plan aims to expand capacity in the sectors of cargo transport, container logistics, and cruise tourism, as well as to foster the development of clean energy and associated infrastructure. The project is designed to prepare Belfast Harbour for growing trade flows and to partially alleviate capacity constraints on Ireland’s east coast.

CMA CGM is updating the schedule for its SAFRAN service – which connects Northern Europe with the East Coast of South America – with the aim of enhancing operational stability and mitigating the risk of schedule disruptions. These updates are designed to improve service reliability and facilitate more efficient shipping planning for customers on this key transatlantic trade lane.

During the World Hydrogen Summit & Exhibition 2026 in Rotterdam, a new partnership – LAUNCH2 – was officially launched with the aim of accelerating the development of hydrogen technologies in the region. This initiative brings together the Port of Rotterdam Authority, the Municipality of Rotterdam, the Municipality of Schiedam, the Province of South Holland, InnovationQuarter, TU Delft, TNO, and Smart Delta Drechtsteden. The partnership was established to foster a more coordinated development of regional hydrogen value chains and to strengthen Rotterdam’s position as one of Europe’s key hydrogen hubs.

The Canadian technology company Geotab has released a study titled “The Cost of Standing Still” – part of its European Freight Efficiency Index – in which it analyzed the efficiency of freight transport in European capital cities. Berlin topped the rankings, scoring 61 out of 100 points thanks to its steady traffic flow and well-developed urban infrastructure. Madrid posted the worst result, scoring just 25 points – representing a 144% efficiency gap between the two cities.

The Swiss railway company SBB is continuing to reform its single-wagon transport system (EWLV) and will implement a new operating model starting in December 2026. The primary objective of this change is to increase train utilization, reduce costs, and ensure the long-term economic sustainability of rail freight transport. This decision is driven by requirements from the Swiss federal authorities, mandating that freight operations become self-sustaining by 2033.

AD Ports Group has agreed to acquire 100% of the core business of Germany-based MBS Logistics for AED 300 million, equivalent to approximately $81.7 million. The transaction excludes the company’s joint ventures and is expected to close in the second half of 2026, following approval from European regulatory authorities. Through this acquisition, AD Ports aims to strengthen its market presence in Germany and Central Europe.