CFM railway restructuring looms as Moldova scales up cargo capacity to Giurgiulești Port
Calea Ferată din Moldova (CFM) has successfully completed its first-ever test run of a 3,000-tonne freight train on the southern corridor. The route, spanning Basarabeasca to Cahul, marks a significant upgrade in the country’s logistical capabilities.
The test required an extensive preparation phase, including the restoration of cargo ramps and the reopening of a track segment that had been dormant for over five years. Elite technical crews and instructors monitored the entire journey to ensure safety.
For the first time in a decade, the Cahul station cargo ramp was fully operational, facilitating complete loading and unloading cycles. The test also introduced modern video monitoring and electronic document transfers between stations and locomotive teams.
Efficiency and Environmental Impact
According to CFM, a single train of this capacity can replace up to 100 heavy-duty trucks. This shift is expected to significantly reduce pressure on national roads while lowering the carbon footprint of regional logistics.
The success of the test confirms that the Basarabeasca–Cahul segment can now handle high-volume cargo. This opens new commercial avenues for transporting goods to and from the strategic Giurgiulești Port.
Strategic Restructuring by 2026
Deputy Prime Minister Vladimir Bolea announced that CFM will undergo a major reorganization. Starting in 2026, the state enterprise will split into two distinct entities: "CFM Infrastructure" and "CFM Freight."
To support these efforts, the government has provided 1,000 tonnes of diesel and allocated €4.37 million (approx. 85 million MDL) for the restoration of the Fălciu and Văleni rail segments.
Future Outlook
Minister Bolea confirmed that the Fălciu bridge section is currently in its testing phase and will open in January. Meanwhile, the Văleni segment is expected to be operational by March, further strengthening Moldova's rail network.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
