Identify the EU technical standards and ensure their implementation and digitalisation of all transport modes

ROADMAP PROGRESS

The GARI 2025 reports that next-generation transport action plans are centred on building sustainable, smart and resilient transport systems, with digitalisation, decarbonisation and infrastructure maintenance identified as core pillars. Their implementation is expected to raise safety levels through the introduction of advanced technologies and the continued development of digital platforms supporting seamless transport across key areas.

In support of decarbonisation and transport modernisation, planned measures include expanding electric-vehicle charging infrastructure, improving railway legislation and services, and aligning legislation with Green Agenda measures and the New Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, particularly in relation to e-freight. Efforts to advance multimodality focus on the preparation and approval of action plans for a regional multimodal freight-terminal network. According to the GARI 2025, progress in 2025 was driven by two regional initiatives. On e-freight, the EU4Digital programme, co-financed by the EU and BMZ and implemented by GIZ in coordination with the TCT Secretariat, is working to improve digital infrastructure, enable cross-border/boundary services and support business digitalisation. On multimodality, the extension of the TEN-T Regulation to WB6 has defined the core and comprehensive network for roads, railways and ports, although multimodal terminals remain underdeveloped. The TCT Secretariat has worked with regional partners to identify barriers, conduct market analyses and develop an action plan for a multimodal freight terminal network, with nine priority rail-road terminals identified for potential inclusion in the TEN-T network.

As transport digitalisation advances, the GARI identifies just transition as an important priority. Regional priorities include modernising the transport workforce, attracting young professionals and providing training in new technologies, supported by coordinated measures to maximise emerging digital opportunities while to addressing the social dimensions of the transition.

Note: Action 21 of the first Green Agenda Action Plan (2021–2030), concerning the identification and implementation of EU technical standards and the digitalisation of transport modes, is not retained as a separate action in the Revised Action Plan (2025–2030). These elements are incorporated within the first measure of the Revised Action Plan and are further addressed through related measures under the Reform and Growth Plan.

Source: Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) (2025). Report on the Implementation of the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans Action Plan (GARI 2025), Section 2.3. Sarajevo: RCC.