The Impact of Economic Sustainability in the Transport Sector on GDP of Neighbouring Countries: Following the Example of the Baltic States

Abstract

Transport is very important for the economy and the society because good transport infrastructure helps to improve the mobility of citizens and the traffic of goods, thus ensuring economic sustainability. Background: The European Union (hereinafter—EU) plans to maintain support for the development of transport infrastructure in individual member states. Lithuania’s role as a transit country in the EU’s transport network is of great importance; therefore, efficient transport services and appropriate infrastructure can not only support the domestic market and economic and social growth of the country, but also promote positive economic, social, and political processes in other countries and ensure EU’s strategic defence movement channels. Methods: The study was conducted using econometric methods, including correlation analysis and a regression model, to assess the selected parameters of the transport sector of Lithuania as a transit country and their impact on the real gross domestic product (hereinafter—RGDP) of the selected Baltic states (Latvia and Estonia). Results: The study identified a combination of key factors in the Lithuanian transport sector that affect differences in the level of real GDP per capita. Conclusions: The findings revealed differences in the context of relation between RGDP per capita in the three Baltic states and indicators of the Lithuanian transport sector.