EU Cannot Allow Switzerland to Undermine Free Movement of Goods and Sustainable Transport
Switzerland is threatening the sustainable flow of goods across Europe by not respecting the EU-Switzerland Land Transport Agreement. The EU must defend the Single Market's integrity and act to prevent a potential supply chain crisis.
While the EU advances its Transport Package aimed at decarbonising transport, Switzerland has taken unilateral steps that undermine sustainable freight movement across Europe. Instead of collaborating through the Joint Network Secretariat to enhance rail freight safety, Switzerland has acted independently.
Most freight passing through Switzerland links Europe’s largest seaport with major industrial zones. Swiss measures endanger the European supply chain and are being enforced across Europe, conflicting with 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."
In autumn 2025, Switzerland announced rail freight regulations to take effect from 1 January 2026. These were introduced following the 2023 Gotthard Base Tunnel accident and while pan-European safety improvements are still being finalized.
Author's summary: The EU must take decisive action against Switzerland's unilateral rail freight restrictions to protect the Single Market and promote sustainable transport across Europe.