Starting from Thursday, June 1st, cargo originating from Russia or Belarus will no longer be permitted to cross the border between Poland and Belarus by truck. However, the border will remain open for rail freight. This information was reported by the railway portal Railway Supply, citing the railfreight.

trains continue operating

This border restriction is the latest measure implemented in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and it is expected to have an impact on the regional supply chain.

The Polish Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration announced on Monday, May 29th, that the movement of goods across the border with Belarus will be suspended for trucks, tractors, trailers, and road trains registered in Belarus or Russia until further notice.

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Although certain cargo from Russia and Belarus is subject to sanctions, there is still a significant flow of traffic between these countries and Europe. The closure of the border for trucks will have a notable effect on these transportation routes.

Conversely, there may be a shift towards rail freight, as trains will still be allowed to cross the border after June 1st. Jakub Walczak from CH Robinson mentioned that rail transport could become a favorable alternative, especially for cargo originating in Western Europe or for long-distance haulage.

However, even rail freight between Poland and Belarus has been impacted by the ongoing conflict. Some types of goods are subject to sanctions, and various states, manufacturers, and railway companies have implemented self-imposed restrictions. While some countries, such as Estonia, have committed to phasing out cargo flows to and from Russia and Belarus, many companies have already ceased transiting through these countries.

It is unlikely that the Polish-Belarusian border will close for rail freight due to its significance as a critical junction on the New Silk Road, which connects numerous European and Asian cities by rail. Although traffic volumes along this route may have declined, they have not come to a complete halt.

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