TRIESTE – The future of the Port of Rijeka hinges on a railway line.
This was the key takeaway from a conference held recently in Zagreb by the Croatian Chamber of Commerce, where the spotlight was on the strategic importance of building a new double-track railway between Zagreb and Rijeka. The project is seen as crucial to boosting the port’s competitiveness and expanding its economic impact at both national and regional levels. The infrastructure is expected to be completed between 2032 and 2036. According to a study presented by professors Davor Dujak (University of Osijek) and Borna Debelić (Faculty of Maritime Studies in Rijeka), if the railway becomes operational by 2032, the Port of Rijeka could generate up to €3.3 billion in annual economic value and create approximately 8,600 new jobs in port activities, support services, and the wider local economy.
Currently, the port contributes around €740 million annually to the Croatian economy and directly employs 2,500 people. Including suppliers and related services, the port’s total employment impact is estimated at 5,600 jobs.
The railway will be built and upgraded in several phases. According to Ivan Kršić, president of HŽ Infrastruktura, the earliest completion target is 2032, while the final deadline is set for 2036. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure, Oleg Butković, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accelerating the project as much as possible.
The railway upgrade will be complemented by the expansion of the highway between Zagreb and Rijeka, with a third lane planned by 2029. The aim is to increase freight capacity and reduce travel times between the port and domestic and European markets.
The railway project involves substantial investments: €1.5 billion from EU funds, €900 million from the national budget and EIB loans, and a further €6 billion expected over the next ten years.
“It’s an infrastructure project of historic magnitude,” said Kršić.
Denis Vukorepa, Director of the Port Authority of Rijeka, pointed out that the port’s revenues and profits are steadily growing.
“A one- or two-year delay in the railway won’t change the course we’ve set. Ten years ago, no one believed this development was possible—it was just a dream,” said Vukorepa.
In addition to the Adriatic Gate terminal in Brajdica, the Port of Rijeka is also preparing to launch operations at its new container terminal, to be managed by APM Terminals through a joint venture between Maersk and Croatian company ENNA Logic.
