The French Association of Inland Ports (AFPI), created in 1994 to represent the French inland ports in France and in Europe serves as a unique discussion place for 21 of France’s inland ports and the two largest waterways network operators in France.
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The main inland waterway basins are all present in the association (Seine, Rhine, Mosel, Rhone-Saône and the canals and rivers in Northern France). Its representativeness and legitimacy are, therefore, indisputable.

AFPI is one of EFIP’s funding members, thus testifying to our attachment to a European (inland) port policy. Since 1994, our two federations have worked together and have expanded. For many decades, inland ports have had an international horizon as the European scale is the most judicious for international logistics and trade tools for these ports. By working closely with EFIP, the French association is aware of European stakes and activities.

The European Union is behind major regulatory developments, including port and transport activities. Thus, we can contribute to building strategies and adapt our positions. It is very important to have a relay in Brussels, and EFIP plays this role.

The future begins today, and French inland ports are already involved in many evolving sectors. Among them:

• The development of multimodality is one of the most pressing/important subjects for AFPI ports. Inland ports are not only river ports, but they also develop railway traffics and build combined transport offers. The modal part of inland navigation in France is not at the level it should be, and many efforts are still needed to improve the situation and promote modal shift from road haulage to waterborne and railway transport. AFPI members take part in this ambition.  

• Energy transition is a common priority. Which renewable energy will be the most efficient for ships, trains, lorries, and handling equipment? Inland ports are at the heart of this transition because all kinds of vehicles enter and leave our ports every day. Transport operators demand different fuels, especially renewable energy to achieve the energy transition. AFPI members aim to combine mobility with respect of the environment and are ready to play their full role in this subject.  

• Many inland ports can be found in large urban areas. While they serve as logistical tools for the economy and private companies, they also support their local communities. Some AFPI members have been pioneers in urban distribution, with innovative buildings and a link to city-centres by innovative road and river logistics. Others are strongly involved in waste logistics, which is an important subject for our cities, alongside the acceptability of our inland ports.

AFPI Members are convinced that inland ports are more than ever useful for the development of both transport and logistics, but also for the implementation of the ecological transition. With the support of the European Union, the French State and regional and local authorities, we can make a crucial contribution to a more reasoned economic growth and more balanced land use planning.