Rail transport on the route between the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and Małaszewicze is one of the most important components of the New Silk Road. Małaszewicze already functions as a so-called “dry port” and the main entry gateway to the European Union, handling around 90% of China Railway Express (CRE) trains entering the EU.
The breakthrough of 2026
In January 2026, a breakthrough occurred in its history—the existing infrastructure was taken over by PKP (Polskie Linie Kolejowe), opening the way for a massive expansion project worth billions of PLN.
Key functions and significance
- The change of track gauge
Małaszewicze handles the transshipment of goods between:- broad-gauge rolling stock (1,520 mm) – typical of former Soviet states and much of Asia
- standard-gauge rolling stock (1,435 mm) – used across the European Union
- Facilitating trade with Asia
The terminal handles up to 90% of overland freight traffic between Europe and Chinaserving as a strategic logistics hub. - Budget revenues
- In 2024, the dry port generated approximately PLN 1 billion for the State Treasury. 1 mld zł dla Skarbu Państwa
- The planned expansion could increase these revenues to as much as PLN 50 billion annually. 50 mld zł rocznie
Current investments and changes (2026)
- On January 16, 2026, the acquisition of Cargotor (the previous infrastructure manager) by PKP PLK was finalized, enabling the start of modernization after years of delays.
- Modernization of railway lines
Work is ongoing on access routes; the commissioning of new tracks and traffic control infrastructure is planned for the end of 2026(an investment of approximately 440 million PLN).. - Expansion of terminals
The investment aims to increase capacity in order to handle record cargo volumes from Asia and strengthen control over goods entering the EU.
Location and logistics
Małaszewicze is located in the Lublin Voivodeship, just 9 km from the Polish–Belarusian border (Terespol/Brest). Thanks to its unique location and developed network of terminals, it is the main hub for intermodal (container) transport in this part of the world.
