The Swiss government has submitted the full version of the Freight Transport Ordinance (GüTV) for public consultation, which provides for a reform of the subsidy system for rail and inland waterway transport. The new procedure envisages fixed payments, for example CHF 40 per loaded rail car with a minimum annual volume of 720 cars for industrial sidings. The total funding will amount to CHF 50 million per year. At the same time, the current compensation for road hauliers in combined transport will be gradually abolished.
The government also plans to expand investments in transport infrastructure, including digital technologies. In particular, up to CHF 180 million will be allocated for the introduction of an automatic digital coupling system for wagons. Direct financial support for wagon shipments and port infrastructure on the Rhine will be regulated on the basis of performance agreements.
The public consultation on the project will last until August 12, 2025, and the new rules are scheduled to come into force on January 1, 2026.