Transport Market Forum discussed the recovery of the transport sector

On Wednesday, 26 May, operators in the transport sector discussed the recovery of the sector at Transport Market Forum organised by the Ministry of Transport and Communications. A recording of the event can be found on Youtube.

The operating environment in the transport sector has been weakened by the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the topics discussed at the Forum was how to influence people's mobility behaviour so that they choose more sustainable modes of transport than the private car. Another topic was how to increase the modal split of public transport.

The first Transport Market Forum convened in spring 2019. The aim of the Forum is that operators in the transport sector exchange views on the effects of the Act on Transport Services on the operation of the markets. The Forum supports the monitoring of the impacts of the Act on Transport Services.

Minister Harakka: Digitalisation changes the operating models

"Although the COVID-19 pandemic has affected operators in the transport sector, I believe that our strengths in technological expertise, for example, provide a favourable environment for growth," Minister of Transport and Communications Timo Harakka said in his opening address.

The Ministry promotes the right conditions for transport operators through a number of projects. For example, in its third supplementary budget, the Government proposes an additional appropriation for the purchase of public transport and train transport services in large and medium-sized cities. In 2020, an additional appropriation of EUR 200 million was allocated for public transport services. In addition, the Sustainable Growth Programme for Finland will support growth that is ecologically, socially and economically sustainable in line with the aims of the Government Programme.

"Digitalisation and responding to climate change are transforming the operating models globally. It means that there is also a larger demand for services and solutions developed in Finland," Harakka said.

Inquiries

Olli-Pekka Rantala, Director General, Services Department, tel. +358 50 344 3400