The effects of the transition from a centrally planned to a free market economy in the Hungarian transport sector are described. A rapid increase in freight transport and an exponential increase in car ownership occured over this period. Since 1990 there has been a marked reduction in demand for rail transport. Since the mid-1990s 70-75% of Hungary's export/import trade has been with EU countries. A sharp shift in the modal split has occurred, moving towards prevailing trends in the EU. A marked decrease in rail freight and and increase in road freight has occurred, necessitating improvement of the motorway system. While Hungarian transport policy seeks to promote sustainable transport modes, freight customers show a clear preference for the use of roads and pipelines. Railway freight was considered prone to loss or damage of goods. Adoption of EU regulations and strict environmental rules are considered a difficult task for Hungarian freight transport operators. Challenges and opportunities arising from integration with the EU are described. The steps that Hungarian transport enterprises need to take in order to adapt to the changing demands of the market are outlined. In particular greater knowledge of transport economics is considered necessary. For the covering abstract for this conference see ITRD E128114.
Abstract