A new regular common user train service was recently launched by Metrans that links the Croatian port of Rijeka, via the Adriatic Gate Container Terminal (AGCT), to Budapest in Hungary.

International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) — which operates AGCT at the Port of Rijeka — said the new rail cargo service connects AGCT with Metrans' Csepel Terminal in Budapest was launched in June.

"We commend Metrans for launching this new service that connects Rijeka to Csepel Terminal and Metrans' entire intermodal network in Europe," said Emmanuel Papagiannakis, AGCT chief executive officer. 

"Unlike the multiple regular weekly block trains between Rijeka and different rail hubs in Budapest that are dedicated to individual clients, this common user service enables freight forwarders and shippers to book landside services directly with Metrans. It is very encouraging to see the second common rail service launched within two months," Papagiannakis added.

The AGCT executive noted that the Hungarian market is the second largest for AGCT and one of the most important in Europe.

"Already a significant manufacturing and consumer market, Hungary sees potential for further growth as the economy continues its strong development. Metrans' new service also creates a potential for Slovakia, Austria, Czechia and Romania, and confirms the growing significance of AGCT as a gateway for Southern, Central and Southeastern Europe," Papagiannakis said.

The common rail service runs twice per week at a fixed timetable, offering a direct connection between Rijeka and Budapest without stopovers, as well as attractive transit times. 

A subsidiary of ICTSI, AGCT looks to further increase its rail throughput, which represents 47% of its total volume.

ICTSI noted that an increase in rail traffic would contribute to a more sustainable supply chain, as moving freight by rail instead of truck reduces carbon emissions by up to 24 kilograms per freight ton.