Ukrzaliznytsia seeks 50% discount on transit of Ukrainian cargo through Moldova

Ukrzaliznytsia and Calea Ferată din Moldova are negotiating a 50% reduction in transit tariffs for Ukrainian cargo transported through Moldova, Valerii Tkachov, deputy head of Ukrzaliznytsia's Transportation Technology and Commercial Operations Department, said during an online meeting with agricultural market participants on Aug. 6, according to RAIL.insider.

According to Tkachov, the talks are taking place both at the level of the relevant ministries and between Ukrzaliznytsia and Moldova's state railway operator.

"Indeed, we are requesting a 50% discount on Moldova's transit tariff," Tkachov said.

He added that the Moldovan side first wants to understand what transit cargo volumes Ukrainian shippers are able to guarantee.

The parties are also discussing locomotive traction. According to Tkachov, Moldova's railway operator has reported a shortage of locomotives and proposed that freight services across its territory be operated using Ukrzaliznytsia's locomotives.

Tkachov said the negotiations are ongoing and that Ukrzaliznytsia will announce the outcome once consultations are completed.