The proposal by the Estonian government was brought up at a cabinet meeting as part of the strategic plan approved by Operail’s board of directors in November 2023, this is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Privatization of the freight operator Operail

Given the limited prospects of the Estonian domestic market for railway freight due to low volumes and distances, privatization appears to be a logical step to ensure the necessary level of profitability.

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Selling Operail to a private investor will open up new opportunities for expanding its geographical footprint in Europe.

This not only contributes to the development of railways as an environmentally friendly and safe mode of transportation but also stimulates the industrial and logistics sectors, promoting the country’s economy overall.

Since becoming the successor of EVR Cargo operator in 2018, Operail has already expanded its responsibilities, becoming a market-oriented transport and logistics company.

In addition to freight transportation, the company is involved in leasing, repair, and modernization of rolling stock.

In 2020, it was granted permission to carry out freight transportation on the railway networks of Finland.

However, in 2023, Operail decided to sell its assets in Finland and close its wagon leasing business.

Photo: Operail

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