As of 2023, the Netherlands leads in Europe with 3.35 thousand kilometers of navigable canals, followed by France at 3.14, and Germany at 2.04. Italy and Serbia host moderate networks, while countries like Poland, Romania, and Hungary maintain smaller canal systems. The United Kingdom, Finland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Lithuania possess minimal canal mileage.
Year-over-year trends indicate the Netherlands saw a 0.34% decline, while Germany observed a growth of 0.17%. Italy experienced a notable 0.42% increase. Remarkably, Romania surged by 6.63%, driven by enhancements in waterway infrastructure.
Future trends to watch include potential investment in Eastern Europe's canal systems, possibly narrowing the gap with Western countries. Environmental and logistical factors may also shape the roles of these waterways, impacting their expansion or contraction.
Top countries in Length of Navigable Canals by Country
| # | 10 Countries | Kilometers | Last Year | YoY | 5-years CAGR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Netherlands | 3,350 | 2023 | -0.84% | -0.34% | View data |
| 2 | 2 France | 3,140 | 2023 | -0.032% | -0.045% | View data |
| 3 | 3 Germany | 2,040 | 2023 | +0.39% | +0.17% | View data |
| 4 | 4 Italy | 965 | 2023 | +0.62% | +0.42% | View data |
| 5 | 5 Serbia | 522 | 2021 | 0% | View data | |
| 6 | 6 Poland | 336.3 | 2023 | 0% | +0.1% | View data |
| 7 | 7 Romania | 182 | 2023 | +1.11% | +6.63% | View data |
| 8 | 8 Hungary | 178 | 2023 | +1.14% | +0.57% | View data |
| 9 | 9 United Kingdom | 159 | 2023 | 0% | 0% | View data |
| 10 | 10 Finland | 130 | 2023 | 0% | +0.79% | View data |
