As global trade and supply chains face increasing disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions, reliable logistics infrastructure is becoming a key driver of economic resilience and strategic autonomy. Rising war in Ukraine, attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea blocking shipping through Suez Canal, and increasingly protectionist trade policy by the United States are reshaping traditional trade routes. More and more companies are seeking closer, more stable, and more reliable alternatives.
Credit: Rohlig SUUS Logistics Slovenia
Miša Rizmanovski, Managing Director, Rohlig SUUS Logistics Slovenia
In this shifting environment, Slovenia is far from a passive observer – its location between the Mediterranean and Central Europe is turning into a genuine advantage. The Port of Koper recorded a 12% increase in container throughput in the first five months of this year, including a remarkable 30% jump in May alone. This growth occurred without direct government subsidies, highlighting the competitiveness of Slovenian logistics built on location, service quality, and efficiency.
A turning point on the logistic map of Europe
Slovenia remains one of the most export-oriented economies in Europe. Goods and services exports account for nearly 90% of its GDP, making connectivity and international infrastructure critical to long-term growth. With new factories opening in neighbouring Hungary and growing regional demand for transportation, Slovenia has the potential to position itself not just as a transit corridor but also as a regional logistics and industrial hub.
The opportunity is real – but not without its challenges. Rail infrastructure is still not fully adapted to handle 740-meter freight trains, the European standard. While the Port of Koper offers adequate capacity, inland infrastructure sometimes lags behind. Its modernization is essential not only to improve transport conditions but also to enable broader economic development, attract investment, support green transitions, and enhance productivity.
At the same time, competition in the region is intensifying. Croatia is expanding the Port of Rijeka, Serbia is investing in new rail links, and other Adriatic ports are growing rapidly. If Slovenia wants to maintain and strengthen its position in this space, logistics must be recognized as a national strategic priority – one that connects trade, industry, energy, and innovation.
Global trade is entering a new phase, and Slovenia has the potential to become a key player in this realignment. With the right investments and coordination, this could be a turning point for the country's long-term economic strength and resilience.
Slovenia is emerging as a key hub for logistics investment
At Rohlig SUUS Logistics, we have recognized the significant logistics potential in Slovenia over the years. We have been operating in the market since 2019. Our local branches are located in Koper and in Brnik, near Ljubljana. We provide a wide range of logistics support for our customers, including sea, rail, and air freight, intermodal solutions, FTL and LTL road transport, as well as customs services.
Our presence in the country responds to growing demand for flexible and resilient supply chains that allow companies to adapt swiftly to the changing dynamics of global trade.
For us, the Port of Koper is not only a critical gateway connecting Central Europe with the Mediterranean, but also a strategic node in two major pan-European transport corridors – the Mediterranean and the Baltic-Adriatic. The latter, in particular, is gaining importance with the expansion of rail infrastructure leading to the port, as part of international initiatives supporting intermodal transport along the north-south axis.
We see Slovenia not merely as a transit country, but as a space with growing potential to host regional logistics hubs tailored to the needs of companies operating in Central and Eastern Europe. That’s why we are intensifying our presence by investing in solutions that help our customers build stable, sustainable, and future-oriented logistics models. Slovenia’s growing logistics and economic potential confirms that our investment in the country was truly One Step Ahead.