The transport volume of 27.8 million tonnes is significantly higher than the company had planned, and in recent months it has been roughly at last year’s level. Performance exceeded expectations in the transport of solid fuels, which is closely linked to the crisis in the Middle East and rising oil prices. Year-over-year, we transported significantly more timber and grain. Intermodal transport and the automotive segment also saw growth. In both cases, the company’s international expansion strategy, launched in previous years, is having a positive impact. For example, thanks to cooperation with the German subsidiary, the first train pulled by a ČD Cargo locomotive reached the Danish border crossing station of Padborg. The company does not focus solely on traditional commodities but is preparing a number of projects to transport new commodities, such as car batteries, biomass, or solid alternative fuels, among others.
“Higher transport volumes mean efficient utilization of ČD Cargo’s capacity, which has translated into positive financial results,” says Radim Ječný, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ČD Cargo. The company has managed to maintain operational efficiency despite challenging track closures affecting freight train operations not only on rail lines in the Czech Republic but also, for example, in Germany. “I would like to thank all our business partners for their trust and our employees for their high-quality work. The results we’ve achieved are positive, but that doesn’t mean our industry has entered a period of certainty. Market developments remain highly dynamic, and we must be prepared for the fact that next year will bring new challenges, ” states Radim Ječný, concluding: “Right now is the right time to focus on efficiency, service quality, and seeking out new opportunities. These are the areas that will determine how successful we will be in the coming years. “