A regulatory gap in Europe is creating obstacles for freight transport. Although several EU countries, including France and Belgium, permit 44-tonne trucks on domestic roads, these vehicles are not allowed to cross borders between them.
The restriction leads to inefficiencies: more vehicles on the road, additional fuel use, and higher emissions. Export sectors such as agriculture are particularly affected, as the rule limits opportunities for load consolidation and complicates logistics.
To draw attention to the issue, the French transport association AFTRI has adopted an unusual awareness tool: comic strips. The aim is to present the complexity of the regulation in a simple and accessible way. According to AFTRI, the initiative has received positive feedback, especially from agricultural stakeholders. Whether this public support will influence policymakers and prompt a change in EU rules remains an open question.
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