Rail Baltica: Supply Chain Agreements Boost High-Speed Rail in Baltics

Introduction

Rail Baltica has finalized framework agreements with Höhle OÜ and Pipelife Eesti AS for the supply of multi-ducts and cable-ducts, representing a significant step in the development of the cross-border high-speed railway project and supporting regional industry. The agreements were officially put into effect, ensuring the provision of essential construction materials.

Framework Agreements

The framework agreements for the supply of multi-ducts and cable-ducts for Rail Baltica have commenced. These agreements were established with Höhle OÜ for multi-ducts and Pipelife Eesti AS for cable-ducts, in order to guarantee that the materials meet the highest safety and engineering standards. A framework agreement is a long-term arrangement between the three Baltic states and a supplier that defines general terms for future purchases such as pricing, quality and delivery.

Supplier Details

Höhle OÜ, based in Rapla municipality and part of HellermannTyton Estonia OÜ, is the leading producer of micro ducts in the Baltics, exporting to 20 European countries. Founded in 2015, the company joined HellermannTyton Telecoms in 2023. With an annual turnover of €20 million and a team of 50, Höhle OÜ is tripling its manufacturing capacity, aiming to complete the expansion by the end of Q1 2026. Pipelife Eesti AS, founded in 1993 and operating near Tallinn, is part of the Pipelife brand owned by Wienerberger since 2012.

Project Impact

The construction of Rail Baltica is creating opportunities for local manufacturers and service providers. These contracts are expected to provide jobs for Estonian companies and tax revenue for municipalities, with a direct economic impact on the regions the high-speed railway passes through. The total value of these agreements amounts to €1.13 billion, representing the maximum estimated contract value including the cost of superstructure materials for the full scope of Rail Baltica.

Future Procurements

Next material groups planned for framework agreements include key superstructure components such as sleepers with fastening systems, under sleeper pads, rails, railway ballast, turnouts and rail expansion joints. Additional local manufacturers are preparing to join the supply chain, strengthening regional industry participation and production capacity.

Conclusion

The framework agreements with Höhle OÜ and Pipelife Eesti AS mark a key step in securing construction materials for Rail Baltica. The procurements are largely completed, with additional framework agreements planned for superstructure components.

Company Summary

Höhle OÜ: Based in Rapla municipality, part of HellermannTyton Estonia OÜ, is a producer of micro ducts in the Baltics, exporting to 20 European countries. Founded in 2015, the company joined HellermannTyton Telecoms in 2023. With an annual turnover of €20 million and a team of 50, Höhle OÜ is tripling its manufacturing capacity, aiming to complete the expansion by the end of Q1 2026.

Pipelife Eesti AS: Founded in 1993 and operating near Tallinn, is part of the Pipelife brand owned by Wienerberger since 2012. It is a leading provider of piping solutions in the Baltics.

RB Rail AS: A company that Marko Kivila is the CEO. The company is developing Rail Baltica as a safety-critical system integrating track, signalling, power, rolling stock and other components.

Rail Baltica Estonia: Anvar Salomets is the CEO of Rail Baltica Estonia.