Transport for a Global Economy

New Challenges and Opportunities

Forum 2009, Leipzig, 26-29 May 2009

 

Information also available in German and in Turkish
Call for Exhibitors in German and in Turkish

Efficient transport is a cornerstone of our global economy. Competitive transport services operated securely and sustainably are essential for growth and development. But now the financial crisis coupled with volatile oil prices poses demanding new challenges for international transport systems.

Some of the key questions the Forum will address:

  • What does the present economic crisis mean for globalisation?
  • Transport and globalisation - Who stands to lose and win?
  • High transport costs - What impact for a globalised economy?
  • How will the global credit crunch affect transport investment programmes?
  • Is transport a driver of globalisation or is it rather driven by it?

The Ministers of Transport of 51 Forum member countries and guest countries will again be meeting in Leipzig from 26 to 29 May 2009 with key leaders from industry, the research sector and civil society to discuss the challenges of globalisation for the transport sector and consider what transport can do to respond to the needs for global economic and social development.

At the Leipzig Forum, distinguished speakers will be putting forward their points of view on globalisation and debating the big issues for transport with Ministers. Some of the issues will be:

  • Should there be further liberalisation in the transport sector in order to meet the needs of a steadily globalising economy? Will current economic and financial problems make us reconsider globalisation and the liberalisation that goes hand in hand with it?
  • How do we improve transport chains and the interfaces where modes meet, particularly the main continental gateways? How do we improve the connections of seaports and airports to inland (rail and road) infrastructure?
  • With public budgets under increasing pressure, how can financing and investment be secured? What are the prospects for public and private finance?
  • Is it possible to make border crossings easier?
  • What are the environmental and social implications of globalisation in the transport sector?

The Forum is a unique opportunity to meet the key transport policy-makers of more than 50 countries.  Make it a date, now!