The business organizations' Accessible Finland 2060 project lays the groundwork for long-term solutions for Finland's international transport connections. The goal is for the next government to elevate the development of sea, air, road and rail connections to a prime ministerial-level flagship project.
Finland's location at the end of the Baltic Sea makes smooth and reliable international connections crucial for the national economy, the competitiveness of companies, and security of supply.
Decisions regarding transport networks and international connections directly affect the operating conditions of companies, investments, security of supply and the security of the entire country.
The changing geo-economy highlights the need to strengthen mobility opportunities, especially to other Nordic countries, the Baltics and Central Europe. The importance of accessibility is also emphasized as Finland prepares for investments that will span decades.
Achievable Finland 2060 brings together long-term solutions
Accessibility must be viewed as a whole and over the long term. Preparations must be started now so that Finland has competitive connections to Europe and the world in 2060.
"Finland should take the lead in developing the EU's northern transport connections. It is important for the next government to seek, together with the other Nordic countries, ways to connect us more strongly to Europe by investing in maritime and air transport and fixed links. The right time is now, when the EU wants to invest in transport networks between member states and a major upgrade in their financing is being prepared," EK's CEO Minna Helle highlight.
The Achievable Finland 2060 project examines the topic from the perspectives of foreign trade, human mobility, industrial value chains, green transition, investments, security and military mobility.
Focus areas of the Achievable Finland 2060 project
Sea and air transport
Finland's accessibility will also depend on these in the future. The transition to sustainable fuels will change the cost structure of transport modes and require the construction of a new fuel ecosystem in Finland. Electrification also requires attention in maritime transport.
Major transport infrastructure projects
Rail Nordica's national planning for European gauge is starting in the Oulu and Rovaniemi directions. In addition, a thorough examination of possible fixed connections to Tallinn, Stockholm and across the Kvarken to Sweden is needed.
Project financing
Developing Finland's international connections requires, in addition to Nordic cooperation, significant EU funding. National studies and plans must be launched quickly so that Finland can influence the EU's next multiannual financial framework for 2028–2034.
The Accessible Finland 2060 project involves the Confederation of Finnish Industries EK, the Construction Industry Federation RT, the Service Sector Employers' Association Palta, and the Tourism and Restaurant Services MaRa in cooperation with Destia, Ramboll and Miltton.
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