Problems faced by freight companies operating on routes between the EU and Russia

19.9.2013

Question for written answer E-010742-13
to the Commission
Rule 117
Ryszard Antoni Legutko (ECR)

In September this year Russia plans to impose new insurance requirements on transport companies in addition to the TIR carnet. According to the UN Economic Commission for Europe this could cost up to EUR 1 000 for each journey.

Another problem which might further hamper the movement of goods from Russia is the fact that, as of 1 December this year, the AsMAP association will cease to be recognised in Russia as a guarantor of the TIR carnet. This means that there will no longer be a body licensed to issue the TIR carnet to Russian freight companies. This will result in a situation whereby Russian lorries will be subjected to rigorous checks at the EU border.

Russia’s actions will have a negative effect on the interests of EU Member States and in particular of Polish hauliers, as these accounted for 20% of international transport and transit in 2011, according to Eurostat. Polish firms also led the field in long-haul transport involving journeys of 1 000 to 2 000 km.

1. What action does the Commission intend to take regarding the increasing problems faced by haulage companies working on routes between the EU and Russia?

2. Has the Commission devised a scheme to support European hauliers in dispute with Russia?

OJ C 206, 02/07/2014