Rail - Belgium

Rail transportation stands out for its efficiency in moving large quantities of freight across extensive distances, especially excelling in transporting bulk goods like coal, minerals, and manufactured products. Its strength lies in efficiently moving heavy and bulky goods, making it an economical choice for certain industries, particularly due to its capacity for large-volume journeys.

Part of intermodal transportation networks, rail collaborates with other modes like trucks and ships, optimizing the movement of goods over various distances. Recognized for its environmental friendliness, especially for long-haul freight, trains exhibit lower fuel consumption per ton-mile compared to trucks.

Extending across countries and continents, rail networks play a crucial role in international trade, connecting regions and offering an alternative to maritime transportation for specific cargo types. Despite its strengths, rail transportation faces challenges such as competition from other modes, aging infrastructure, and the necessity for continuous modernization. Opportunities for growth lie in expanding high-speed rail networks and embracing digitalization.

As a vital component of the broader transportation industry, rail transportation contributes efficiently and sustainably to the movement of goods and passengers. The sector continually evolves to meet the changing demands of the global economy.

Data coverage:

The data encompasses B2B enterprises. Figures are based on the activities of the Rail freight market.

Modeling approach:

Market sizes are determined through a bottom-up approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use resources from the Statista platform as well as annual financial reports of the market-leading companies and industry associations, third-party studies and reports, national statistical offices, international institutions, and the experience of our analysts.

Forecasts:

In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the S-curve function and exponential trend smoothing are well suited for forecasting transportation activity due to the non-linear growth of this market

Additional notes:

The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year.