On 14 April 2026, the UIC Freight Forum Spring Session, coordinated by Joost Overdijkink, UIC Freight Senior Advisor, opened with a clear and future-focused message from François Davenne, UIC Director General, who highlighted the freight community’s crucial role in the railway sector.
He began by updating the participants that, since the last Freight Forum in October 2025, Bertrand Minary has taken up the role of Freight Director. His upcoming work will shape the Freight Strategy 2026-2028, built on UIC’s strategic pillars, and focus on direction, coherence, and impact.
François Davenne also highlighted Clemens Först’s substantial contribution, both as CEO of Rail Cargo Group and Chair of this Forum, whose leadership has strengthened the visibility and influence of rail freight across Europe. A new call for candidates is now open for the position of Chair of the Freight Forum, an important step for ensuring continued progress and partnership.
He also reaffirmed UIC’s role as the technical backbone of the rail sector, driving system transformation through major initiatives such as the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS), Digital Automatic Coupling, interoperability standards, and supporting European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS)/European Train Control System (ETCS) deployment.
The session drew strong participation, reflecting growing engagement within and a revitalisation of the Freight Forum.
Minary then set out the roadmap for 2026–2028, highlighting a collaborative, bottom up approach and introducing six pilot areas to steer delivery. These focus on areas such as advocacy, global standards, operational development and improved service provision, building on the core strengths of UIC Freight in support of its members and the wider rail sector. An update was also given on progress and current priorities across these areas of expertise: wagon utilisation, loading guidelines, data exchange, combined transport, the transport of dangerous goods, operations, exceptional consignments, quality management and continental freight corridors.
