Polish rail freight volume drops amid transport sector profitability crisis

In 2025 Polish rail freight transported about 217.8 million tonnes, a 2.5 % decline from the previous year and the lowest level since 2012. Total ton‑kilometres fell to 56.2 billion, down roughly 3.5 %. Traditional energy commodities such as coal and oil saw modest drops, while construction materials, basic metals, chemicals and intermodal traffic grew, the latter now accounting for over 10 % of cargo weight. International export, import and transit flows represented 35.4 % of mass and 45 % of overall work, underscoring the rail network’s role in European supply chains.

At the same time, the broader Polish transport industry in 2026 faces a severe profitability squeeze. Rising driver wages, fuel costs, fleet maintenance expenses and road‑user charges, together with heightened SENT penalties and tighter EU market conditions, have driven many operators to the brink. Over 800 licensed transport firms closed in the first quarter, pushing industry leaders to call for legislative relief such as partial fuel‑tax refunds and longer payment terms. Experts stress that beyond regulation, adoption of AI‑driven planning tools and digital‑twin simulations is essential to restore efficiency and financial health.

Both developments highlight a sector in transition, with declining traditional cargo volumes and mounting financial pressures prompting calls for modernisation and policy support.