Economic growth

Changes in the volume and structure of economic activity have immediate repercussions on the transport system. The last decade of the 20th century was characterised by the structural relocation of industry from urban areas to new sites, which contributed to the dispersal of economic activities.

The development of strongly service-based economies has made transport patterns more diffuse. The number of points of departure and arrival has increased, and flexibility and speed have become key parameters in transport decisions.

In an effort to optimise production and save on storage costs, some businesses have introduced just-in-time delivery systems. The nature of freight has shifted from heavy, bulk goods to lighter, high-value goods; consequently, there has been a reduction in shipment size and an increase in shipment frequency.

The opening up of Central and Eastern European countries and the development of corresponding trade links have increased the demand for both freight and passenger transport. Road transport between Western and Eastern Europe is predicted to quadruple, and railway transport to triple, in the years to come.