Employment in the inland waterway transport sector in France stood at 4.69 thousand FTEs in 2023. The sector experienced fluctuations from 2016 to 2023, with significant year-on-year variations, including a severe dip in 2020 due to a downturn; however, a robust rebound followed. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) from 2018 to 2023 was approximately 2.44%. The forecast for 2024 to 2028 predicts steady growth, projecting a CAGR of 1.74% and a cumulative 9% increase by 2028, indicating a positive but modest growth trajectory.

Future trends to watch for:

Potential impacts of environmental regulations on shipping methods.
Technological advancements potentially enhancing operational efficiency.
The role of global trade patterns and economic indicators in influencing employment levels.
Adaptations to climate change affecting inland waterways usage.