Swiss railway company Sbb Cargo International established a subsidiary in France. Named Sbb Cargo France, the new branch is headquartered in Huningue, a French town located just a few kilometers from the Swiss border. This development coincides with the recent initiation of works by Sncf Réseau to upgrade the railway line connecting the port of this town, situated along the Rhine River, to Saint-Louis, which is currently not electrified. The primary goal of this venture is to enhance rail transportation between Switzerland and France, but its ambitions extend beyond that.
The company is also tasked with activating alternative routes through France in the event of disruptions to significant international corridors that cross Switzerland, such as the Rhine-Alps route, which also affects Italy. This necessity has become apparent over the last decade due to severe incidents – like the one in Rastatt, Germany – which have hindered international freight transport. Furthermore, the ongoing enhancement works on the German network, which are expected to impact European rail traffic at least until 2040, add to the strategic importance of this expansion. Another potential motive for Sbb Cargo's expansion into France is the crisis facing the local Sncf Frét, which risks being downscaled and dismantled. This situation could open new opportunities for private and foreign companies in the French market.
