Rail Supply Industry Positioned as Key Player in New EU Clean Industrial Deal

The European Rail Supply Industry has been recognized as a crucial partner in the European Union's newly announced Clean Industrial Deal, aimed at enhancing business competitiveness and addressing climate change.

UNIFE Director General Enno Wiebe congratulated Ursula von der Leyen on her reappointment as EU Commission President and extended an invitation to discuss how the rail industry can support these ambitious goals.

"The European Rail Supply Industry, which represents an industry worth EUR 45.8 billion and 650,000 jobs, is an agile and modern industry ready for European competitiveness reform," Wiebe stated. He mentioned the industry's potential to create jobs, boost productivity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, noting that rail transport accounts for only 0.4% of Europe's total transport emissions. Wiebe also called for reducing EU reporting requirements, enforcing fair trade practices, and promoting technological advancements such as AI to enhance the industry's competitiveness.

UNIFE is set to play a significant role in shaping the Clean Industrial Deal, advocating for the rail regulations streamlining and harmonizing rules across Member States to create a unified Single European Railway Area. Wiebe argues this will facilitate cross-border travel and stimulate regional economic growth through investment in rail infrastructure. "Competitiveness and climate action go hand in hand," Wiebe said, highlighting the potential of the rail industry to transform European transport networks and rejuvenate the industrial ecosystem.

Source: UNIFE