What is BASF's investment plan for rail logistics at its Ludwigshafen hub, and how is it being funded?

BASF plans to upgrade and expand the rail logistics infrastructure at its Ludwigshafen petrochemicals production hub in Germany with an investment of more than €100 million; the German federal government is supporting the project with €51 million, and the expansion of the 'combined transport terminal' (Kombiverkehrsterminal) is scheduled for completion in 2028.

Why is BASF increasing rail capacity at Ludwigshafen, and what is the current modal split for freight transport there?

BASF is expanding rail capacity to shift more freight to rail—especially amid challenges posed by low water levels on the Rhine river, which have heightened the importance of rail and truck transport as alternatives to barge; currently, about 30% of goods at Ludwigshafen are moved by rail, another 30% by truck, and around 40% by barge on the Rhine, with large quantities of raw materials and feedstocks supplied via barge.

BASF invests in rail logistics at Ludwigshafen hub

Aug 19, 2026

BASF plans to invest over €100 million to upgrade rail logistics at its Ludwigshafen petrochemical hub, backed by €51 million in federal funding. The expansion aims to enhance supply chain efficiency and competitiveness amidst low Rhine water levels affecting barge transport.

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