The average price for 95-octane gasoline in Switzerland has surpassed 2.00 francs per liter for the first time since 2022, reaching 2.02 francs, according to data from the Touring Club Schweiz (TCS).
The benchmark fuel price rose by five centimes over the past week, while diesel increased by the same amount to 2.27 francs per liter. The TCS attributed the increases to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, reduced refinery capacity and elevated transport costs.
Multiple refineries in the Persian Gulf and Russia have been disrupted in recent months, curtailing supply. Additionally, low water levels on the Rhine have driven up inland shipping tariffs between Rotterdam and Basel. The freight rate surged from 33.50 to 240 francs per tonne within slightly more than a month as the river gauge at Kaub, Germany, fell to 31 centimeters—well below the 200 centimeters required for normal navigation and approaching the 120-centimeter threshold where restrictions begin.
Despite the recent gains, current fuel prices remain below 2022 peaks, when 95-octane gasoline peaked at 2.31 francs per liter and diesel reached 2.40 francs. The TCS does not expect significant price declines in the near term, citing persistent geopolitical risks, constrained refinery output and ongoing transport bottlenecks.
