In a video message to the Union of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry for Transport (UECC) on its 75th anniversary, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen underscored the critical role of the transport industry in Europe’s economic integration and called for a collective response to the sector’s pressing challenges.

The president’s address, delivered to participants of the Transport Congress in Duisburg, highlighted the transport industry’s significant contribution to Europe’s economic growth, accounting for 5% of the bloc’s GDP and employing over 10 million people. However, she also emphasised the urgent need to tackle the obstacles confronting the sector.