Compulsory storage system Security of supply through compulsory stockpiling

The compulsory storage system ensures that essential medicinal products remain available in Switzerland even during times of severe shortages. This enables supply bottlenecks to be bridged at short notice and time gained for restoring supply.
Compulsory stockpiling is a key instrument of the National Economic Supply system FONES.

Supply bottlenecks and why compulsory stocks are necessary

The compulsory storage system comprises a large number of essential medicinal products and has been used and continuously developed for decades.

The compulsory stocks are dimensioned such that, depending on the medicinal product, they can cover the average needs of the Swiss population for two to four months in the event of a severe shortage.

The supply of medicinal products is now more dependent on international supply chains than it used to be. Supply bottlenecks are increasing and are also affecting Switzerland. Important, often inexpensive medications such as antibiotics, vaccines and painkillers are particularly frequently affected.

Roles and responsibilities

Clear responsibilities and collaboration to ensure supply in times of severe shortages.

Swiss Confederation

  • sets the legal framework for compulsory stockpiling
  • determines which medicinal products are subject to compulsory stockpiling
  • monitors the supply situation and takes measures if necessary

Helvecura

  • performs the tasks assigned to it by the federal government in connection with compulsory stockpiling
  • is the link between the federal government and business
  • operates and maintains the application for maintaining compulsory stock data
  • ensures the administrative and organisational processes of compulsory stockpiling
  • participates in the definition and implementation of compensation under the Guarantee Fund
  • is the point of contact for compulsory stock companies and authorities

Compulsory stock companies

  • manage and maintain compulsory stocks in accordance with the statutory requirements
  • report changes in compulsory stocks and sales
  • ensure the availability of medicinal products in accordance with the requirements in times of severe shortages
  • receive compensation for compulsory stockpiling under the Guarantee Fund

The compulsory stockpiling system is based on a clearly defined legal framework and the coordinated interaction of all parties involved. Implementation is conducted independently within the defined framework and coordinated by Helvecura and the compulsory stockholders. This makes it possible to design processes efficiently without the federal government having to be involved on an operational basis.

Helvecura combines, coordinates and operates the compulsory stockpiling system.

The compulsory storage of essential medicinal products is organised, implemented and financed by compulsory warehousing companies.

In times of severe shortages, supply is provided in accordance with the National Economic Supply Act. Find out more about the legal bases that are directly related to the tasks performed by Helvecura.