The Association of Romanian Private Rail Freight Operators (AOPGR) has formally lodged a complaint with the European Commission, accusing the Romanian government of unlawfully managing the country’s state-owned rail freight sector. The complaint focuses on what the AOPGR describes as unfair practices that disadvantage private operators in favor of the state-run rail company, CFR Marfă.
The dispute centers on the government’s alleged failure to create a level playing field for private freight companies, who claim that the state-owned operator enjoys preferential treatment. This includes concerns over subsidies and the mismanagement of rail freight services, which, according to private operators, violate European Union regulations aimed at fostering competition.
The complaint, filed in late February 2025, marks an escalation in the ongoing tensions between Romania’s private freight sector and state-run rail services. AOPGR argues that the lack of fair competition not only harms private companies but also undermines the potential for a more efficient and competitive rail freight market in Romania.
Key Points:
- Complaint Filed: February 2025.
- Issue: Alleged illegal government support for state-owned CFR Marfă, disadvantaging private freight operators.
- Complaint Recipient: European Commission.
- Allegations: Unfair treatment and violation of EU competition rules.
This legal action underscores growing frustrations among private operators who are seeking to ensure a more transparent and competitive environment within Romania’s rail freight sector. The European Commission will now review the complaint and decide on potential further action.
