Published: November 20 2023
A blockade by Polish and Slovakian truck drivers at the Záhony border crossing point in Eastern Hungary has caused significant traffic congestion for trucks, resulting in long queues on the Hungarian side. The situation is a result of a conflict between Ukrainian and European hauliers regarding new European legislation that allows Ukrainian hauliers to register their companies in Poland, undercutting prices for trucking services. The blockade is causing disruptions for truck traffic, but passenger traffic remains unaffected.
Increased Traffic at Záhony Border Crossing
The blockade by Polish and Slovakian truckers has led to a significant increase in traffic at the Záhony border crossing point. Truck queues on the Hungarian side can exceed ten kilometers as trucks wait to exit. Hungarian and Ukrainian authorities are working together to increase the throughput of truck traffic and improve customs services.
Impact on European Hauliers
Ukrainian hauliers registering their companies in Poland, taking advantage of European legislation, have created a pricing advantage that undermines European trucking companies. The Union of Road Hauliers of Slovakia (UNAS) has shown support for Polish colleagues and has blocked the border crossing on the Slovak side. They are demanding that the European Commission introduce transport permits for Ukrainian vehicles to ensure fair competition.
Threat of Complete Border Blockade
Slovak hauliers are threatening to completely block the border with Ukraine if the European Commission does not address their concerns regarding Ukrainian hauliers. They have given a seven-day ultimatum for a response from the European Commission, and if no progress is made, they will join the Polish blockade and close the entire Vyšné Nemecké crossing with Ukraine.
Conclusion
The blockade by Polish and Slovakian truckers at the Záhony border crossing point in Hungary has caused significant traffic congestion and disruptions for truck traffic. The conflict between Ukrainian and European hauliers regarding registration in Poland and fair competition is ongoing, with Slovak hauliers threatening further action if their demands are not met by the European Commission.
Questions & Answers
What is causing chaos at the Záhony border crossing in Hungary? The chaos is caused by a blockade of Polish and Slovakian truckers, which has resulted in a significant queue of trucks at the border crossing.
Which countries are involved in the blockade at the Záhony border crossing? The blockade is being carried out by Polish and Slovak hauliers.
What is the reason for the blockade? The blockade is a result of Ukrainian hauliers exploiting new European legislation that allows them to register their companies in Poland and circumvent customs and taxation rules, undercutting prices at which trucking companies operate.
How is the Hungarian and Ukrainian authorities responding to the situation? The Hungarian and Ukrainian authorities are working together to increase the throughput of truck traffic and increase the capacities of customs services on both sides.
Is the blockade affecting passenger traffic? No, the blockade is not affecting passenger traffic. However, increased attention should be paid when approaching the border crossing due to heavy traffic.
What are Slovak hauliers threatening to do if the situation is not addressed? Slovak hauliers are threatening to completely block the border with Ukraine if the European Commission does not address the situation. They are demanding that Brussels introduce transport permits for Ukrainian vehicles because European companies cannot compete with them.
What actions are Hungarian colleagues considering in response to the blockade? Hungarian colleagues are also considering joining the blockade if there is no shift in the situation, closing the whole of Vyšné Nemecké crossing with Ukraine.
What is the Union of Road Hauliers of Slovakia (UNAS) protesting against? UNAS is protesting against the liberalization of EU rules for Ukrainian hauliers and disagrees with the European Commission's regulation that canceled the issuance of permits for Ukrainian carriers to enter the EU.
