The Council of the European Union has adopted an Amending Protocol to the EU-Switzerland agreement on rail and road transport, updating rules for international passenger and freight services. The protocol, published on 2 November 2026, aims to facilitate new international rail passenger services and ensure a level playing field, impacting rail operators, road hauliers, and national transport authorities.
Document Details and Scope
The protocol was adopted by the Council and updates the 1999 EU-Switzerland land transport agreement. It is a binding legislative instrument that incorporates key EU single railway area rules, including Directive 2012/34/EU on the single European railway area and Regulation (EU) 2016/796 on the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA). Switzerland gains the right to participate in ERA, enhancing regulatory alignment.
Key Policy Orientations and Trade-offs
The protocol explicitly defines rights for international rail services to pick up and set down passengers at intermediate stations, boosting cross-border connectivity. However, it introduces exceptions for Swiss domestic transport policy, such as its interval-service timetable, balancing integration with national sovereignty. Rules for the Swiss heavy goods vehicle charge are also set, aiming to prevent competitive distortions between Swiss and EU road hauliers.
Impact on Stakeholders - EU rail operators: Benefit from expanded market access and clearer rights for passenger services, but face compliance costs with Swiss-specific exceptions. - Swiss rail operators: Gain access to ERA and streamlined procedures, but must adapt to EU regulatory standards. - Road hauliers: Subject to harmonised heavy goods vehicle charges, reducing cost advantages for Swiss operators, but may face higher fees. - National transport authorities: Must coordinate with ERA and enforce new rules, requiring administrative adjustments.
Expected Institutional Follow-up
The protocol will be signed by the EU and Switzerland, then ratified by both parties. The European Parliament will need to give its consent before the Council can conclude the agreement. Implementation will require updates to national legislation and ERA procedures.
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