IRU accuses the European Commission of favoring industry at the expense of transport
The International Road Transport Union (IRU) criticizes the European Commission's industrial decarbonization proposal for neglecting the transport sector.
The International Road Transport Union (IRU) has raised concerns regarding the European Commission's recent proposal for an industrial decarbonization regulation, informally referred to as 'Made in Europe.' This proposal has sparked significant unease within the transportation industry, as it appears to prioritize industrial production while underrepresenting critical logistical systems and transport infrastructure that are vital for supply chains and mobility across the EU. The IRU underscores the importance of ensuring that the transport sector is adequately considered in all related regulations to maintain efficient and accessible logistics.
IRU's director for the EU, Raluca Marian, emphasized that while strengthening the EU's industrial capacity is important, policymakers need to ensure that new measures do not hinder the availability, functionality, or affordability of vehicles and components for transport operators. The organization warns that a lack of focus on transport in the decarbonization agenda could lead to increased costs for transport operators, potentially destabilizing the whole mobility sector.
In addition, there are concerns from vehicle manufacturers that a continued neglect of the transport aspect could lead to delays or obstacles in the availability of necessary transport solutions, further complicating the transition towards a more sustainable and decarbonized transport system. The IRUโs stance is a reflection of the broader debate on balancing industrial growth with the practical needs of the transport sector, which plays a crucial role in Europe's economy and connectivity.