Fuel risk in Switzerland: crossing the border may not be enough

Context

In brief

• Switzerland faces a fuel shortage
• Florence Schurch: situation 'very high'
• Ongoing energy and food crisis

Key facts

• What: Risk of fuel shortage in Switzerland
• When: Critical situation since March 2026
• Where: Switzerland, with strategic reserves abroad
• Who: Florence Schurch, Secretary General of Suissenégoce
• Amount: Oil price at 125 dollars per barrel, with prospects of rising to 150 dollars

The energy stability of Switzerland is at risk. Florence Schurch, Secretary General of Suissenégoce, the Swiss association for the trade of raw materials, stated in a recent interview with the French-speaking media Tribune de Geneva and 24 heures that the risk of a fuel shortage in Switzerland is 'very high'. The situation is critical not only for the oil sector but also for gas and food supplies. As early as March, the association had signaled the imminent depletion of strategic reserves in countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam, and Bangladesh. Today, that fear has become a tangible reality. 'To be honest, the situation is really getting complicated,' Schurch admitted.

Gas and food supplies: a precarious balance

It's not just the oil sector that is causing concern; the issue of gas is also described as 'serious'. The natural summer storage cycle is compromised by unpredictable infrastructure incidents, including the 'destruction of a refinery in Qatar, which will not be rebuilt quickly'. In addition to energy, the shadow of the crisis looms over the shopping cart. A global surge in food prices is expected. Although for Switzerland the impact is expected to be more moderate compared to other economies, inflationary pressure remains an unknown for consumers.

The knot of foreign reserves and energy dependence

One of the most critical points raised by Suissenégoce concerns the logistics of supplies. Currently, Switzerland's gas reserves are stored abroad, mainly in Germany and France. A strategy that, in the event of an acute geopolitical crisis, exposes the country to risks of isolation. 'The experience of Covid has taught us that, in emergency situations, international support can fail,' Schurch warned, recalling the blockade of masks that occurred during the most critical phases of the pandemic. With only one refinery active on national territory — capable of meeting just 20% of demand — Switzerland could be forced to use its purchasing power to survive international competition, securing resources at out-of-market prices.

Oil: heading towards 150 dollars per barrel?

Instability is also fueled by diplomatic tensions between the United States and Iran. With the price of oil already exceeding 125 dollars per barrel, short-term prospects remain bleak. The hypothesis of a prolongation of the blockade of Iranian ports by the White House could push oil to 150 dollars. Florence Schurch's conclusion leaves little doubt about the complexity of the challenge: 'There is no precise threshold beyond which the system stops. It all depends on how operators perceive the duration of the conflict and the evolution of demand.' In this scenario, Switzerland is preparing for a period of uncertainty, where the security of supplies will become the absolute priority of the political and economic agenda.

Operational details

Implications for cross-border workers

The energy crisis and the possible fuel shortage in Switzerland could have significant repercussions for cross-border workers who work in Ticino and reside in Italy. With the price of crude oil rising and fuel availability uncertain, cross-border workers may face difficulties in refueling their cars. This could affect their ability to travel daily between the two countries, with possible impacts on their work and quality of life.

Possible Scenarios

In a scenario of fuel shortage, cross-border workers might need to consider alternative means of transport, such as public transport or carpooling. However, these options could also be limited due to increasing demand and possible service reductions. Additionally, the rise in fuel prices could have a significant impact on the cost of living, making it harder for cross-border workers to manage their finances.

What to Do

In this context of uncertainty, it is important that cross-border workers are prepared and informed. Monitoring news and official communications can help stay updated on the situation. Furthermore, planning trips in advance and considering alternative means of transport can be useful to address any difficulties. Finally, it is advisable to have an emergency plan, such as a fuel reserve or an emergency fund, to deal with any critical situations.

Useful tools to protect your net income

To reduce FX leakage, compare CHF-EUR exchange options and banks for cross-border workers.

Key points

Concrete procedures for cross-border workers

1. Monitor the news: Stay updated on the latest news regarding the energy situation in Switzerland and Italy. 2. Plan your trips: Plan your daily trips in advance and consider alternative transportation options, such as public transport or carpooling. 3. Have an emergency plan: Prepare an emergency plan, such as a fuel reserve or an emergency fund, to deal with any critical situations. 4. Stay informed about official communications: Monitor the official communications of Swiss and Italian authorities to stay updated on any changes or emergency measures. 5. Use calculation tools: Use tools like the fuel expense calculator to plan and manage your finances more effectively.

Useful tools

• Fuel expense calculator: This tool can help cross-border workers plan and manage their finances more effectively, taking into account possible fuel price increases.
• Guide to public transport in Ticino: This guide can provide useful information on public transport services available in Ticino, helping cross-border workers plan their trips in case of fuel shortages.
• Information on fuel reserves in Switzerland: This section can provide updated information on fuel reserves in Switzerland, helping cross-border workers stay informed about the situation.

Conclusion

In a context of energy uncertainty, it is fundamental that cross-border workers are prepared and informed. Monitoring the news, planning trips, and having an emergency plan can make a difference. Using calculation tools and practical guides can help manage finances and cope with any difficulties. In this way, cross-border workers can continue to work and live peacefully, despite the challenges posed by the energy crisis.

Source: comozero.it