Restructuring Romania’s Railways: The Freight Business

Abstract

Railways remain a key element in Romania’s transport infrastructure but many adjustments have been made since 1989 in the quest for profitability in the context of European integration as well as competition with other transport modes. After a brief contextual introduction the paper concentrates on railfreight; noting a fall in traffic since 1989, coupled with the need for qualitative improvements and higher labour productivity with the state-owned freight company (CFR Marfă) now open to competition from private operators who have gradually increased their share of the business. The paper concludes with reference to Marfă privatisation as a prerequisite for the long-term survival of the company as a major player in the business