Taavi Varb, CEO of Maru Betoonitööd (MBT), said today on Äripäev Radio’s morning show that Rail Baltica, which has reached the concrete work phase of construction, is a key project for both MBT and many other companies in the sector, but that they must not lose ground in Finland.
The Rail Baltica project will account for half of MBT’s revenue this year and nearly 70% next year, Taavi Varb stated on Äripäev Radio. Despite the heavy workload associated with this massive project in Estonia, MBT continues to operate actively in Finland as well.
“We have decided that we will not leave Finland,” said Varb. “As Estonian companies, we have created a market for ourselves in Finland. Our competitive advantage in Finland is no longer cheaper labor costs, but rather our work organization and project management skills. It is important for Estonian concrete construction companies not to lose the position they have achieved in Finland over the past 15 years.” Varb noted that a network of clients and suppliers has also developed in Finland, and building such a network in a new market is a major challenge.
According to Varbi, Rail Baltica could put other developers—who also need concrete contractors in Estonia—in a difficult position next year. Once companies have their core staff on board and their overhead costs covered, they will start selecting projects or raising prices, explained the head of MBT. It is also unclear how easy it will be to extend work permits for Ukrainians in Estonia and Finland. Currently, the concrete construction sector is staffed primarily by Ukrainians, who, once the war in Ukraine ends, will likely decide in large numbers to return home to help rebuild their country, leading to a labor shortage in Estonia.
MBT currently has a contract for the Phase V structures in Rapla County—viaducts, bridges, and box culverts—as well as the concrete structures for Phase II of Cycle 0 at the Ülemiste Terminal.
Listen here: https://www.aripaev.ee/saated/2025/09/08/betoonitootja-rail-balticu-ehitamisest-riske-on-palju-uks-neist-toojoud