An analysis of estimates of transport activity and restructuring plans for industry and transport was carried out to show the changes expected in the freight transport systems of Eastern European countries up to the year 2005. These changes are examined in detail in terms of rail transport, road haulage, inland waterway transport, international freight forwarding, containers and combined transport and cabotage and short sea shipping. In each case Eastern European countries are considered individually and the variation in expectations explained. Rail transport is expected to increase only on a fairly modest scale due to the level of financial resources required. Increases in road haulage are more likely due to existing excess capacity and the lower amount of investment required. A number of recommendations are made about the way in which future freight transport systems should be developed in East European countries and it is emphasised that help and co-operation is in the interest of Western European countries.
Samenvatting