Context

The "Multimodal Logistics Taskforce–ERCI SC Meeting" serves as a pivotal platform for in-depth discussions on critical issues surrounding multimodality in the logistics sector. Focused on fostering a sustainable EU freight system, the meeting delves into the multifaceted dimensions of multimodal logistics, emphasizing its role as a key enabler for sustainable transport. Addressing challenges inherent in enhancing rail modal split, the event aims to unravel the complexities associated with contemporary freight logistics, exploring emerging trends and demands shaping the industry.

Objectives

The objectives of the event are multifaceted. Firstly, it seeks to engage participants in a comprehensive dialogue on the role of multimodal logistics as a cornerstone for a sustainable and efficient EU freight system. Secondly, the meeting aims to identify and address challenges that lie ahead in optimizing rail modal split, fostering a strategic approach to overcome obstacles. Additionally, the forum will explore evolving trends and demands in the realm of multimodal freight logistics, ensuring participants gain valuable insights into industry dynamics. The event also aims to unravel key issues and strategize effective approaches for promoting sustainable logistics practices. Finally, a crucial aspect involves road-mapping a comprehensive multimodal strategy, providing a clear and actionable plan for stakeholders in the logistics sector.

Agenda

10:00 Welcome - Santiago Garcia Milà (Port of Barcelona) – Ignasi Belinchon (In-Move Railgrup)

10:15  Mediterranean Rail Hubs : challenges & opportunities

• Mediterranean Ports & Terminals 2023-2024: How to survive recurrent disruptions – Jordi Torrent, Med Ports Secretary General &  Terminal Group Representative of the Mediterranean Rail Freight Corridor
• Port Authority of La Spezia-Marina di Carrara - Simone Pacciardi, Project Manager Autorità di Sistema Portuale del Mar Ligure Orientale
• HUPAC Inland Terminal Perspective  - Ricard Vendrell 

11:15 Coffee Break & Networking

11:40 Round Table: What’s needed to be done in order to increaserail's market share? 

• Veronica Elena Bocci - DITECFER
• Jordi Fornos - CIMALSA
• Aristarco Tomás -TENALACH 
• Núria Lacaci  - ACE - Asociación Cargadores de España

Moderated by Ignasi Gómez-Belinchón - In-Move by Railgrup

12:30 European Policies & Projects Opportunities

Introduction by In-Move 

Ongoing Projects

FP5-TRANS4M-R project – To establish rail freight as backbone of the lowest emission and most resilient logistics chain in Europe - Felix Hildebrandt, Senior Project Manager at Hacon and Subproject Leader of Seamless Rail Freight for the TRANS4M-R project for Europe's Rail.

ESEP4Freight project – European Shift Enabler Portal for Freight - Celestino Sánchez, Project Manager at EURNEX e.V. and ESEP4Freight technical coordinator

Port Virtual Lab  - Simulation tool for the management ofrail transport operations - Marco Griffone, European Railway Expert at EscolaEuropea (online)

DITECFER 

• Policy and operational considerations to maintain attractiveness of Mediterranean ports in case of heavy disruptions in supplies logistics. Indications from the EU-RAIL LEADER 2030 project. 

• Policy related needs to be raised to EU authorities from a Port perspective: how to optimise the freight flow in mediterranean Ports to foster EU industrial resilience.

Closing by DITECFER & In-Move

Emerging R&D&I needs that can potentially be funded by EU funding in the near future

13:30 Visit of the facilities by boat

14:30  Lunch

15:45 End of event