Federal Department of Economics, Education and Research
Bern, 11/24/2020 – The situation of the Swiss export industry remains challenging and threatens to worsen due to the second wave. That is why Federal Councilor Guy Parmelin invited the representatives of the export industry to another exchange on November 24, 2020. In particular, the additional support measures for the export economy, the development of the focus markets such as the USA and China as well as current developments relating to free trade were discussed.
After a first personal meeting in August, the second round table was held virtually. Representatives of 19 business associations and chambers of commerce, the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO, Switzerland Global Enterprise (S-GE), the Swiss Export Risk Insurance SERV and the Exhibition and Project Commission (MPK) took part.
The decline in Swiss foreign trade in the second quarter of 2020 was a record high. Even if a recovery set in in the meantime in the third quarter, the situation remains challenging for numerous Swiss export sectors and threatens to worsen due to the second wave. This is especially true because important export markets are currently affected by the pandemic. The current restrictions on business travel are an additional obstacle to the export industry, which would like to see relief through new test strategies or other quickly effective solutions. From the export industry’s point of view, positive reports about the possible use of vaccines in 2021 are a sign of confidence.
In addition to a current assessment of the situation, the exchange also allowed an in-depth discussion of the priorities of the Swiss export industry in the coming months. Our economy is dependent on the international markets and closely integrated. That is why transparent and functioning rules for trade relations as well as bilateral and multilateral economic agreements are of great importance. In particular, the preferential relations with third countries created thanks to free trade agreements have proven their worth during the crisis. Reference was made in particular to the vote on the Economic Partnership Agreement with Indonesia. This is important for the entire export industry and also sets new standards in terms of sustainability. The close dialogue is valued by the federal government and business and is to be continued next spring.
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