Croatia plans to invest €6bn in railway development over the next decade as part of a nationwide modernisation push, with rail as the country’s top transport priority, the transport ministry said on November 24.

Speaking at the annual Via Vita transport congress in Rovinj, ministry state secretary Tomislav Mihotić said the investment programme aims to improve regional connectivity, safety and accessibility while shifting the country toward more sustainable transport infrastructure.

“Investment in railways is now an absolute priority,” Mihotić said, adding that the programme includes both infrastructure upgrades and rolling stock renewal. Croatia’s state rail operator will finish the year with 70 newly delivered trains worth €360mn, he said.

The EU-aligned overhaul includes major corridor upgrades, new rail links and modernisation of signalling systems. Mihotić said preparation and execution of projects will run in parallel to shorten timelines.

While rail is the focus, motorway and road development will continue, he said. Among ongoing projects are the construction of the Podravina Y network and a €160mn expressway linking Požega to Croatia’s motorway system.

Mihotić said 2027 would mark a milestone for road transport, with Croatia set to complete the full-profile Istrian Y motorway and introduce a countrywide contactless e-tolling system designed to reduce congestion and shorten travel times.

Transport infrastructure is expanding faster than ever, said Ivica Budimir, president of the Croatian Roads and Railways Association. He said modernisation across sectors — including electrification, digital tolling and fleet upgrades — is part of a single strategy to build a “modern, efficient and sustainable transport system.”

The Via Vita congress, now in its 12th year, brings together policymakers, engineers and industry executives to coordinate long-term transport planning and align regulation with national development goals.