EU Urges Action Against Switzerland's Impact on Sustainable Goods Transport
Switzerland is currently undermining sustainable goods transport across Europe and disregarding the EU-Switzerland Land Transport Agreement. The European Union must protect the Single Market and intervene to prevent a potential supply chain crisis.
Switzerland's Unilateral Measures and Their Consequences
While the EU advances its Transport Package aimed at decarbonising transport, Switzerland is acting independently in ways that weaken sustainable freight movement. Instead of collaborating through the Joint Network Secretariat to enhance rail freight safety, Switzerland has chosen a solo path.
Most freight moving through Switzerland links Europe’s largest seaport with vital industrial regions. The Swiss measures threaten to disrupt the European supply chain and are being extended beyond Switzerland’s borders, contradicting the existing EU-Switzerland Land Transport Agreement.
"The EU cannot afford to stay silent any longer. It must be firm in protecting not only the integrity of its Single Market but also in ensuring that a sustainable mode of transport is not disadvantaged."
Recent Developments and Future Implications
In autumn 2025, Switzerland announced new rail freight measures for goods crossing its territory, effective from 1 January 2026. These actions follow the 2023 Gotthard Base Tunnel accident and come as the EU finalises enhanced pan-European safety measures.
Context and Importance
- The EU is focused on sustainable transport and decarbonisation.
- Switzerland’s unilateral steps may cause lasting supply chain disruptions.
- Cooperation through existing agreements is essential to maintain market stability.
Author's summary: Switzerland's independent rail freight measures threaten European supply chains and contradict transport agreements, pressing the EU to defend sustainable and unified market practices.