Switzerland and China: Agreement Reached to Modernize Their Free Trade Treaty

Thursday 20 August 2026 - 15:33

Switzerland and China have completed their negotiations to update their free trade agreement. The new arrangement is set to significantly expand Swiss companies' access to the Chinese market, with nearly all Swiss exports expected to benefit from duty-free entry.

A Strengthened Trade Agreement

Switzerland and China have concluded their discussions on updating their free trade agreement, Swiss authorities announced on Thursday.

The announcement was made in Bern following a meeting between Swiss President Guy Parmelin and Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao. The negotiations aimed to adapt the existing trade framework to current exchanges between the two countries.

For Switzerland, this is crucial: China is its third largest trading partner and thus represents a strategic market for many Swiss companies.

99.8% of Swiss Exports Duty-Free

One of the main advancements announced concerns the conditions for accessing the Chinese market.

According to Swiss authorities, 99.8% of Swiss exports will be able to enter China duty-free under the new agreement.

This change is significant compared to the current arrangement, where preferential conditions applied to only about half of the goods exported from Switzerland to China.

This evolution is expected to provide Swiss companies with broader access to the Chinese market and enhance the competitiveness of their products.

A Strategic Market for Swiss Companies

The modernization of the agreement comes at a time when international trade relations are marked by increasing trade barriers and economic tensions.

For Switzerland, expanding tariff preferences is a way to further secure its companies' outlets in China.

The agreement could particularly benefit sectors that are already heavily export-oriented, while creating more favorable conditions for companies looking to develop their presence in the Chinese market.

A New Step in Economic Relations

The conclusion of negotiations does not necessarily mean an immediate implementation of all the new provisions. The necessary procedures for the text to come into effect still need to be carried out.

Nevertheless, the modernized agreement marks a new step in economic relations between the two countries. By considerably expanding the number of Swiss exports benefiting from duty-free access, Bern aims to consolidate its position with one of its main trading partners.

For Beijing, this commercial rapprochement with Switzerland also confirms the importance placed on maintaining and developing open economic relations with its European partners.