photo: Velvyslanectví Polské republiky v Praze / CC BY 3.0 PL / gov.pl/Polish Logistics Day 2024
Polish Logistics Day in Prague brought together key players in the transport and logistics industry, marking a milestone in Czech-Polish cooperation.
Held in November 2024 at the Polish Embassy in Prague, the event drew over 100 industry leaders, government officials, and journalists to discuss the growing role of intermodal transport, the impact of Polish ports on European logistics, and the new Baltic Express rail service.
With Polish ports gaining increasing significance in Central European trade, the event focused on how efficient rail and road connections between the two countries are reshaping logistics networks. Discussions revolved around new business opportunities, infrastructure investments, and a commitment to closer Czech-Polish collaboration.
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Key Topics: Intermodal Transport and the Rise of Polish Ports
A major focus of the event was on intermodal transport, particularly how Polish seaports and container terminals are shaping trade routes for Czech imports and exports. Speakers spoke about the importance of rail and road infrastructure upgrades in ensuring seamless connectivity between Poland and the Czech Republic.
The event welcomed representatives from major transport and logistics companies, including Gdynia Container Terminal, Baltic Container Terminal, Baltic Hub, and OT Logistics, alongside rail freight operators such as PKP Cargo International, EP Logistics, Orlen Unipetrol, and ČD Cargo. Government and institutional representatives also played a crucial role, with attendees from Poland’s Ministry of Infrastructure, the Czech Chamber of Commerce, the Centre for Transport Research, and the Eastern Studies Centre (Ośrodek Studiów Wschodnich).
Polish Ports: The New Powerhouses of European Logistics
Speakers from Gdańsk, Gdynia, and Szczecin-Świnoujście ports detailed how their facilities are becoming critical hubs for international trade, not just for Poland but for the entire Central and Eastern European region.
- Gdańsk Port, one of the most advanced on the Baltic Sea, serves as a key gateway for global trade and is the only Baltic port capable of handling the largest ocean-going vessels. Its direct links with China make it a crucial logistics hub for Central Europe, handling everything from coal and food products to luxury goods and automotive cargo.
- Gdynia Port prides itself on modernization and adaptability, focusing heavily on container and passenger transport, with Ro-Ro and Ro-Pax ferry services connecting Poland to Sweden and Finland. The port’s strategic partnerships with Stena Line and Finnlines show its growing role in linking Poland with Scandinavia.
- Szczecin-Świnoujście Port leverages its multimodal capabilities, integrating rail, road, and sea transport. The port’s CE-59 and E-59 rail corridors, along with E30 highways and A11/A20 motorways, make it a vital logistics hub. Its specialized terminals handle LNG, bulk goods, and oversized cargo, supporting rapid freight movement across Europe and Scandinavia.
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A major highlight of the event was the introduction of Baltic Express, a new direct rail service connecting Prague to Poland’s northern coast. This service, a joint initiative by České dráhy (ČD) and PKP Intercity, aims to cut travel times by nearly four hours, providing a seamless link between Prague and Gdynia in just nine hours. The train will depart from Prague and pass through key Czech and Polish cities, including Pardubice, Ústí nad Orlicí, Wrocław, Poznań, and Gdańsk, before reaching Gdynia.
Meanwhile, Polish construction giant BUDIMEX, a key organizer of Polish Logistics Day, presented its expanding presence in the Czech market. The company, which specializes in transport infrastructure projects, is actively involved in railway construction, hydrotechnical engineering, and road development.
Exclusive Interview: OT Logistics CEO Kamil Jedynak on the Future of Polish Ports
In an exclusive interview with RAILTARGET, Kamil Jedynak, CEO of OT Logistics, shared insights into how Polish ports are reshaping European logistics, particularly in response to geopolitical shifts and evolving trade routes.
On OT Logistics’ Role in the Market
"We are one of the biggest logistics operators in Poland, owning ports in Świnoujście and Gdynia. Our integrated approach allows us to provide a full logistics chain for our customers."
On the Growing Importance of Polish Ports
"Since the start of the war in Ukraine, Polish ports have become even more critical—not just for trade but for regional security. We are seeing rapid shifts in logistics routes, and Poland is positioned as a key gateway for Central Europe."
On the Potential for Czech-Polish Collaboration
"We believe Czech companies should rethink their logistics strategies. While many traditionally used German ports, the current market realities highlight the need for alternative, resilient routes. With major infrastructure upgrades in our ports and railways, Polish ports can offer Czech businesses new opportunities for cost-effective and secure transport solutions."
On Future Market Expansion
"While Poland remains our primary market, we are actively working with companies in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. There is huge potential in intermodal transport, linking Northern and Southern Europe. Additionally, with Ukraine’s reconstruction on the horizon, Polish ports will play a crucial role in supplying materials for the rebuilding effort."
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Source: RAILTARGET; port.gdynia.pl, port.szczecin.pl, portgdansk.pl, gov.pl, budimex.pl