The economic footprint of railway transport in Europe

This study demonstrates the economic importance of railway transport by providing a comprehensive analysis of the economic footprint of railway transport in Europe. We analyse how the railway sector’s activities contributed to GDP and supported jobs across the EU27 in 2023.

In 2023, the total economic footprint of the railway transport sector was substantial at €247 billion, exceeding Greece’s GDP and supporting 3,162,000 jobs, more than Ireland’s total employment. The industry’s GVA multiplier of 3.7 indicates that for every €1 contribution to GDP generated directly by the industry, an additional €2.70 is supported in other sectors. Similarly, its employment multiplier of 3.6 shows that for each job in rail transport an additional 2.6 jobs are supported in the EU economy. These figures further emphasise the critical role of the railway transport sector in stimulating economic activity across Europe.

European railway transport offers many wider benefits beyond its short-term economic impacts. By reducing transport times and improving transport quality, it enhances innovation and competitiveness, supporting business growth and boosting productivity. The railway sector leads the way in R&D investment, generating positive spillover effects across various industries. Furthermore, railways are crucial for defence mobility, facilitating the rapid and efficient movement of military resources across Europe. The railway sector plays a key role in ensuring seamless mobility across the continent, thereby promoting economic integration and sustainable development.

The study was commissioned by the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER):

The Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) brings together close to 70 railway undertakings, their national associations as well as infrastructure managers and vehicle leasing companies. The membership is made up of long-established bodies, new entrants and both private and public enterprises, representing 78% of the rail network length, 81% of the rail freight business and about 94% of rail passenger operations in EU, EFTA, and EU accession countries. CER represents the interests of its members towards EU policymakers and transport stakeholders, advocating rail as the backbone of a competitive and sustainable transport system in Europe.