Networks
Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T)
Objective
The Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) is a set of rail, road, air, and water transport networks in the European Union. It provides integrated and intermodal long-distance, high-speed routes across the continent by eliminating border obstacles and closing gaps that hinder cross-border traffic. This ‘flagship’ project of EU Transport Policy aims to develop European transport infrastructure and establish a Single European Transport Area (SERA).
The TEN-T network for rail (amongst other modes) is governed by Regulation (EU) No 1315/2013 on Union guidelines for the development of the trans-European transport network. On 14th December 2021, the European Commission (EC) presented a comprehensive proposal to revise the TEN-T Guidelines. The proposal introduced an intermediary network layer to be completed by 2040, in addition to the a) core network, which should be completed by 2030 and b) the comprehensive network, which should be completed by 2050. In addition, the EC proposed to merge Rail Freight Corridors (RFCs) with TEN-T corridors into European Transport Corridors (ETCs). The proposal also outlined more ambitious technical and operational requirements for rail infrastructure.
In June 2024, the EU adopted a revised TEN-T Regulation (EU 2024/1679) incl an adapted map of lines to connect Ukraine and Moldova to the EU and incl a reference for harmonising track gauges to the European standard.
In September 2024, the EC appointed new TEN-T coordinators and reconfirmed the ERTMS Coordinator to oversee key projects.
In November 2025, the EC published a proposal for a Regulation on military mobility on the TEN-T network and a Communication to connect Europe through High-Speed Rail.
EIM in action
- EIM advocates an increased EU financial framework to match new investment needs.
- EIM actively followed the revision process, providing detailed analyses and briefings to its members.
- EIM engaged with EU institutions, including the EC, EP, and EIB, to discuss funding strategies for infrastructure projects.
EIM actions in 2025
- EIM closely followed the implementation of the revised TEN-T Regulation, both in terms of deployment, co-funding and relevant initiatives (e.g. military mobility, high-speed rail, ERTMS).
- EIM engaged in ongoing discussions on funding needs for the next CEF period (2028-2034).
- EIM exchanged with public and private stakeholders related to TEN-T, military mobility, ERTMS and high-speed rail.
Outlook 2026
- EIM will continue monitoring the implementation of the revised TEN-T Regulation.
- EIM will submit its position to the relevant EU bodies related to military mobility.
- EIM will get involved with the EC high-speed rail financial deals.
- EIM will continue its activities on EU funding, in particular the current and the future MFF incl CEF.
Regulation (EU) 2024/1679
Guidelines on the development of TEN-T (replacing Regulation (EU) No 1315/2013)
Rail Freight Corridors (RFCs)
Facts & context
Topic
Rail Freight Corridors (RFCs) were established to enhance freight transport by rail. Regulation 913/2010 on the creation of a European rail network for competitive freight aims to:
a) foster cooperation among stakeholders, including Member States and Rail Infrastructure Managers (IMs);
b) coordinate capacity offers;
c) improve traffic management;
d) support infrastructure maintenance, development, and usage conditions;
e) harmonise processes and operational rules; and
f) facilitate investment planning and coordination.
Each RFC is subject to an annual performance report and customer satisfaction survey to monitor its effectiveness.
The revised TEN-T Regulation, adopted in June 2024, introduced European Transport Corridors, merging the RFC corridors with the TEN-T corridors to streamline freight and passenger transport planning.
As part of its Capacity Management proposal published on 11th July 2023, the European Commission (EC) repealed the RFC Regulation (913/2010), which was adopted by the EU co-decision bodies.
EIM in action
- EIM participated in the various platforms related to RFCs;
- EIM supported the principle that RFCs contribute to the decarbonisation of transport by facilitating a modal shift for freight from road to rail. This goal has become even more relevant within the context of the EU Green Deal published in 2019 and the “EU Strategy for Sustainable and Smart Mobility” published in 2020. The latter targets an increase of 50% of rail freight by 2030 and of 100% by 2050.
- Infrastructure managers will need to cater for the growing volumes of freight on track, which will require more investments in physical and digital assets.
EIM actions in 2025
- EIM closely followed the EU negotiations related to rail capacity management which repeals Regulation 913/2010.
Outlook 2026
- EIM will continue to monitor the EU adoption process of Regulation 913/2010, particularly in the context of the repeal of Regulation 913/2010.
Regulation (EU) No 913/2010
European rail network for competitive freight