ACEA Calls for Increased EU Transport Funding Under Future EU Budget

EU transport funding has moved to the center of policy discussions as Europe prepares for the next long-term financial cycle. On February 24, the European Automobile Manufacturers Association announced that forty-five organisations representing Europe’s transport sector are joining forces to call for stronger EU transport funding under the future EU budget. Their joint appeal highlights the importance of reinforcing financial commitments to maintain competitiveness, sustainability, and infrastructure resilience across member states.

EU Transport Funding and the Future EU Budget

The debate around EU transport funding is intensifying as negotiations approach for the next Multi-Annual Financial Framework covering 2028–2034. Transport organisations argue that consistent underfunding has slowed the development of a robust European transport network. They stress that EU transport funding must reflect the strategic importance of mobility, logistics efficiency, and cross-border connectivity within the broader EU budget structure.

Strengthening the Connecting Europe Facility

A central element of the request focuses on increasing the budget of the Connecting Europe Facility to at least EUR 100 billion. Stakeholders believe that reinforcing this instrument is essential for securing adequate EU transport funding. The Connecting Europe Facility supports infrastructure projects that enhance connectivity, sustainability, and innovation across the European transport ecosystem.

Joint Appeal from the Transport Sector

The call for stronger EU transport funding is backed by forty-five organisations representing various segments of the transport value chain. Their collective position underscores the need for a stable and predictable financial framework. By coordinating efforts, the signatories aim to ensure that EU transport funding aligns with long-term infrastructure development, climate objectives, and digital transformation priorities.

Role of the Multi-Annual Financial Framework

Upcoming discussions within the General Affairs Council regarding the Multi-Annual Financial Framework will play a decisive role in shaping EU transport funding levels. Signatories have appealed to General Affairs and Finance Ministers to safeguard adequate allocations for transport. They emphasize that EU transport funding must not only be preserved but strengthened to prevent infrastructure gaps and competitiveness risks.

Ensuring a Robust European Transport Network

Advocates argue that a well-funded transport network forms the backbone of economic integration and industrial growth. Adequate EU transport funding is viewed as critical for supporting cross-border mobility, enhancing freight corridors, and accelerating the transition toward cleaner transport systems. By reinforcing financial commitments in the next EU budget, policymakers can provide the foundation required for long-term infrastructure stability.

As negotiations advance, stakeholders continue to emphasize that sustainable progress depends on consistent and reinforced EU transport funding within the forthcoming EU budget cycle.