The employment in the freight rail transport sector in Belgium experienced substantial fluctuations between 2014 and 2023. After peaking at various points, such as in 2017 and 2020, employment numbers experienced significant drops, notably in 2018 and 2019. Although there was an impressive recovery in 2020, the trend has fluctuated slightly downward from 2021 to 2023. As of 2023, employment stood at 974 units, which is nearly stable compared to 2022.
The average year-on-year growth rate for the last two years was approximately -0.81%, while the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the last five years was 0.73%. Forecasts from 2024 onward suggest a gradual decline, with a forecasted CAGR of -0.52% over the next five years, predicting a reduction to 941 units by 2028.
Future trends to watch for include potential impacts of technological advancements, shifts in trade patterns, environmental regulations, and economic factors that could either support growth or further decline in employment levels within this sector.
