Source: https://www.ship2shore.it/it/nasce-binario-italia-la-task-force-per-salvare-la-logistica-ferroviaria
original article in Italian
Binario Italia is born, the task force to save rail logistics.
Five major industry associations (Agens, Assoferr, Assologistica, Fercargo, and Fermerci) have joined forces to present a shared plan to the institutions: "The freight train is strategic for the country's future."
April 11, 2025 at 12:29 PM
A single voice to revitalize Italian rail logistics. This is the essence of the Binario Italia initiative, the task force recently launched by Agens, Assoferr, Assologistica, Fercargo, and Fermerci—the main rail freight transport trade associations—which together represent over 400 companies in the sector.
The goal is ambitious: to overcome current critical issues and build a shared vision for the structural revitalization of the sector, recognizing its strategic value for the competitiveness of the Italian economy. The first step will be the drafting of a joint paper to be presented to the institutions, outlining short- and long-term interventions.
The signing of the pact of intent, which took place at the CNEL headquarters in Rome, was attended by Sabrina De Filippis (Agens), Armando De Girolamo (Assoferr), Umberto Ruggerone (Assologistica), Mauro Pessano (Fercargo), and Clemente Carta (Fermerci). The five representatives emphasized the need for clear, stable, and investment-friendly rules to bridge the competitive gap with road transport.
The development potential is enormous: every kilometer traveled by a freight train generates a saving of approximately €15.30 in external costs compared to road transport. In 2024 alone, the overall benefit for the country is estimated to have exceeded €780 million.
Yet the sector still suffers from low margins, high operating costs, and poor infrastructure. Hence the call to policymakers: act now to avoid a collapse, while simultaneously investing in a sustainable, efficient, and modern vision of rail freight transport. A gamble that, if successful, could transform a structural weakness into a crucial asset for the future.