Today the European Parliament, the Commission and the Council reached an agreement after a third trilogue on electronic freight transport information (eFTI).
Total freight transport in the EU has increased by almost 25 % over the last 20 years, and is projected to further increase by 51 % during 2015–2050. Currently, about 99 % of cross-border transport operations on the territory of the EU still involve paper-based documents at one stage of the operation or another.
The use of electronic documents should become the rule. This report will contribute to the digitalisation of the transport sector, one of Renew Europe's priorities. The digitalisation of the exchange of information could make the transport of goods much more efficient and reliable, yield significant savings, contribute to environmental targets, and help Member States’ enforcement in the transport sector.
MEP Izaskun Bilbao Barandica, Renew Europe’s shadow rapporteur on this file said:
"This regulation guarantees the technological neutrality of administrations in their relations with economic actors. It also contributes to breaking down barriers of space and time between citizens and administrations, accelerates procedures, avoids duplication, simplifies procedures and consequently reduces administrative burdens. Finally, it fosters transparency of administrative management. A great stimulus for the public and private sectors to deepen their digitalisation".
ENDS