Impact of EU legislation on rail network charges

Priority question for written answer P-003695/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Jonas Sjöstedt (The Left)

The Trafikverket (Swedish Transport Administration) is currently raising rail network charges, leading to significantly higher costs for transport companies. Increased costs for rail transport drive more cargo onto less environmentally friendly road transport, thereby counteracting the EU's climate objectives.

When questioned about this matter, the Trafikverket argued that the policy is governed by EU directives and that the EU is in effect forcing the Member States to increase rail network charges.

In the light of the above:

• 1.Does the Commission concur with the explanation given by the Trafikverket and its interpretation of EU directives on rail transport?
• 2.Are EU directives on rail transport forcing the Member States to increase rail network charges, and if so, has the Commission considered the environmental implications of this policy?

Submitted: 24.9.2025