The road transport sector is once again raising its voice about the deterioration of road infrastructure in Spain. The president of the National Confederation of Freight Transport (CETM), Carmelo GonzalezHe has denounced that the investment deficit in road maintenance is comparable to that suffered by the railway network, a problem that has gained prominence after the recent incidents in rail transport.
During a press conference, the CETM warned that approximately [amount missing] has been allocated in 2025. 800 million euros for road maintenance, a figure far removed from the 2.000 million euros per year According to the industry, these investments are necessary to maintain the network in adequate condition. This lack of investment is causing a progressive deterioration of the roads, especially in the right-hand lanes, which are regularly used by trucks and buses and are now impassable in many sections.
The employers' association emphasizes that the absence of a stable maintenance and modernization plan It is jeopardizing road safety and the efficiency of freight transport. In this context, González has rejected the implementation of truck-specific tolls as a way to finance infrastructure, an option that has been raised on several occasions by the Administration.
This situation is compounded by the severe shortage of professional driversCurrently, the sector estimates a deficit of around 30.000 driversa figure that could reach 60.000 in the next two years and double by 2028. The problem is exacerbated by the aging workforce: the nearly 400.000 drivers that operate today in Spain have a average age of 55 yearswhile the incorporation of young people and women remains very limited.
To address this shortage of professionals, CETM has requested the Government to streamline recruitment processes in countries of originwhich currently can take between 12 and 18 months. However, the president of the employers' association has expressed caution regarding the mass regularization of immigrants if they lack the necessary qualifications, permits, and knowledge of traffic regulations in Spain.
Among the proposed solutions, the sector is demanding a specific professional training This includes obtaining a driver's license, a certificate of professional competence, and practical experience in transport companies. It also calls for reducing the economic barriers to entering the profession, increasing public funding for permits and certifications, and strengthening the promotion of road transport in schools and colleges. Other alternatives include facilitating the integration of groups with training potential, such as former military personnel.
Finally, CETM points out that neither rail—which accounts for just over 3% of freight transport—nor the development of autonomous trucks will solve the driver shortage in the short or medium term. “As long as there are truck drivers on the road, supplies are guaranteed,” González concluded, emphasizing the essential role of road transport in the Spanish economy.
