Forecast: Rail Freight Transport in the Netherlands

The rail freight transport in the Netherlands displayed fluctuating but overall positive growth from 2013 through to 2023. In 2023, the volume stood at 6.88 billion tonne kilometers, representing a nearly 1% year-on-year increase compared to 2022. Over the past five years, the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) was mild, averaging around -0.42%, indicating relatively stable yet slightly declining development in recent years. Despite occasional downturns, there have been several years, like 2018, which showed significant growth.

Looking forward to the forecast period from 2024 to 2028, a steady but gradual increase is anticipated. The projected CAGR for this period is 0.72%, with a total growth rate of 3.66%, suggesting a modest uptick in rail freight transport volumes. Key future trends to watch for include advancements in rail technology, shifts in international trade patterns, and policy changes aimed at promoting sustainable transport solutions.