Israel

In the past few years, the transportation infrastructure in Israel has been undergoing a massive investment program, presenting many opportunities for the supply of equipment and services in rail, road, port and airport infrastructure. Large-scale projects currently underway include the construction of the first light rail line in Jerusalem; the beginning of construction for the light rail line in metropolitan Tel Aviv; the Carmel Tunnels; extension of the Cross-Israel Highway and connection of the northern and southern peripheries to the highway; new railway stations and lines, continued upgrading of Haifa Carmel Port and plans to build a new Eilat International Airport.

According to the Israeli Transport Ministry´s five year development program, investment of more than 2.2 Billion (2) a year is planned — about 1.8% of the GNP — almost double that of the last decade. In addition, a 4 Billion multi-year plan (2006-2010) to develop inter-city roads, was approved by the government. The plan includes 74 new and existing projects, and includes involvement by the private sector. In addition, Israel Railways approved a 5B five year development plan for 2006-2011 including new allocations of rolling stock, additional railway lines, level crossings and infrastructure.

In November 2008, the Finance Ministry announced its economic stimulus package, worth ILS21.7 billion (US5.5 billion). Of this amount ILS10 billion (US2.5 billion) is designated for infrastructure projects such as roads, railways, water and sewage, including: northern road 79 (ILS1.2 billion), mass transit for Haifa and Krayot (ILS300 million), railways from Rehovot to the south (ILS300 million), sewage infrastructure (ILS40 million) and water projects (ILS150 million). The Stimulus package is waiting to be approved by parliament after the new gov't is appointed in March 2009. Approved projects will only go into affect after 2010.

The Israeli government encourages international companies to compete in the large projects, especially where Canadians can lend expertise, such as in the railway (equipment and expertise), airports, roads, as well as transportation specialists.

In addition, there is interest in Intelligent Transport Systems Technology (ITS) in Israel. Canada developed an expertise in this area and could provide leadership and JV to Israeli ITS industry and companies.

Leading Canadian companies are active in Israel with local offices, including Bombardier, Aecon, Delcan and IBI.

Events:

  • CUTA 2009 Fall Conference - November 7 – 11
  • Trans-Expo - November 10
  • ITS Conference November 2009