Switzerland stabilizes fuel supply as Cressier refinery resumes operations

Switzerland has stabilized its supply of gasoline and diesel following the resumption of operations at the Cressier refinery in the canton of Neuchâtel. The refinery had experienced a roughly two-week operational shutdown, which, combined with transport restrictions on the Rhine due to low water levels, created a temporary supply bottleneck.

To manage the shortage, the Federal Office for National Economic Supply had authorized the withdrawal of up to 30,000 cubic meters of gasoline and an equal amount of diesel from the country's mandatory reserves. All authorized gasoline has been withdrawn, while approximately two-thirds of the permitted diesel has been used. Companies holding these mandatory reserves are required to replenish the utilized quantities within six months.

While the current supply of petroleum products is considered secure through regular channels, authorities note that the situation remains tense. Low water levels in the Rhine continue to significantly limit transport capacities, necessitating the use of alternative logistics methods.