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SECO: Ordinance on Measures Concerning Moldova
On 10.08.2026 the Federal Department of Economic Affairs EAER has amended the Annex to the ordinance. In this context, 6 individuals were added to the Annex. The measures come into force at 11 pm on 11.08.2026.
SECO: Ordinance on Measures Relating to the Situation in Ukraine
On 10.08.2026 the Federal Department of Economic Affairs EAER has amended annexes 2 and 8 to the ordinance. In this context, 9 individuals and 45 organizations were added to Annex 8, and the entries concerning 11 individuals and entities were amended in Annexes 2 and 8. The measures come into force at 11 pm on 11.08.2026.
SECO: Ordinance on Measures against the Islamic Republic of Iran
The Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) published on 11 August 2026 a positive list relating to Article 21, paragraph 6, of the Ordinance on Measures against the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Sanctions: Ordinance imposing measures against the Republic of South Sudan
On 10 August 2026 the Federal Department of Economic Affairs EAER has amended annex 2 of the ordinance imposing measures against the Republic of South Sudan. One entry concerning an individual has been modified. The measures come into force on 11 August 2026 at 11 p.m.
Sanctions: Ordinance on measures against Sudan
On 10 August 2026, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) has amended annex 2 of the ordinance on measures against Sudan. One individual has been removed from the annex. The measures come into force on 11 August 2026 at 11 p.m.
Consumer sentiment lower than a year ago
In July 2026 the consumer sentiment index stood at –35 points. This is 2 points lower than in July 2025. The following sub-indices are lower than in July 2025: past financial situation, financial outlook and moment to make major purchases. The following sub-index has barely changed compared to July 2025: economic outlook.
Sanctions: Ordinance on measures against individuals and groups associated with the Taliban
The UN sanctions committee has amended the list of sanctioned individuals, companies and organizations. The SESAM database has been updated accordingly. On 4 March 2016 the Federal Council has adopted the Ordinance on the automatic application of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists. Hence, the amendments of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists enter into force in Switzerland without delay.
Sanctions: Ordinance on measures against the Democratic Republic of Congo
The UN sanctions committee has amended the list of sanctioned individuals, companies and organizations. The SESAM database has been updated accordingly. On 4 March 2016 the Federal Council has adopted the Ordinance on the automatic application of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists. Hence, the amendments of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists enter into force in Switzerland without delay.
Ministerial meeting of the Future of Investment and Trade Partnership: A joint commitment to rules-based global trade
On 17 July 2026, the second ministerial meeting of the Future of Investment and Trade Partnership (FIT Partnership) convened in Auckland, New Zealand. Switzerland was represented by SECO State Secretary Helene Budliger Artieda. The small and medium-sized economies that form the FIT Partnership reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based trading system.
SECO: Ordinance on Measures against the Islamic Republic of Iran
On 10.07.2026, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER updated the notification and authorisation forms for money transfers pursuant to Art. 21 of the Ordinance on Measures against the Islamic Republic of Iran. From August onwards, only the new forms will be accepted. The new forms can be accessed here.
Sanctions: Regulation on Measures Against Certain Individuals, Groups, Companies, and Organizations Associated with ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaeda
The UN sanctions committee has amended the list of sanctioned individuals, companies and organizations. The SESAM database has been updated accordingly. On 4 March 2016 the Federal Council adopted the Ordinance on the automatic application of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists. Hence, the amendments of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists enter into force in Switzerland without delay.
Consumer sentiment lower than a year ago
In June 2026 the consumer sentiment index stood at –36 points. This is 4 points lower than in June 2025. The following sub-indices are lower than in June 2025: economic outlook, past financial situation, financial outlook and moment to make major purchases.
Sanctions: Ordinance imposing Measures connected with the Situation in Ukraine
On 30 June 2026, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs (EAER) has updated the document “Interpretative aid for sanction measures”. The modifications are visible in track changes mode.
US tariffs: Federal Council reaffirms commitment to Switzerland–US joint statement
On 14 November 2025, Switzerland and the United States signed a joint statement aimed at stabilising bilateral trade relations. The Federal Council is determined to honour its commitments under that agreement. To this end, on 29 June it published a declaration setting out how it intends to implement certain further elements of the joint statement. In return, it expects the United States to fulfil its corresponding commitments. A comprehensive trade agreement remains the Federal Council's overarching aim.
Federal Council prioritises international cooperation and strengthens humanitarian aid
At its meeting on 24 June 2026, the Federal Council set out the key parameters for international cooperation from 2029. In future, Switzerland will focus its development cooperation in a more targeted manner, establish a clear division of responsibilities between the SDC and SECO, and strengthen its humanitarian aid. In doing so, it is responding to the altered geopolitical situation, enhancing the impact of its international cooperation and, at the same time, achieving savings for the federal budget. The budget for international cooperation remains virtually unchanged at around CHF 2.4 billion per year. The measures that have been adopted will result in an annual reduction of around CHF 20 million from 2027. The FDFA and the EAER were tasked with drafting a consultation document on the International Cooperation Strategy 2029–32 on this basis.
Ukraine Recovery Conference 2026: Switzerland reaffirms its commitment to reconstruction
Switzerland will be represented at the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC) to be held in Gdańsk from 25 to 26 June by a delegation led by Jacques Gerber, the Federal Council’s Delegate for Ukraine. Launched in Lugano in 2022 at Switzerland’s initiative, the Conference has become the key international forum for the reconstruction of Ukraine. This year’s event will focus on the country’s economic recovery, support for critical infrastructure, strengthening security capabilities, and promoting reforms and the fight against corruption.
Economic forecast: Iran crisis clouds the outlook
The Federal Government Expert Group on Business Cycles has revised its growth forecast for Switzerland slightly downward. GDP is now expected to increase by 0.9% in 2026 – well below the historical average – followed by 1.6% in 2027 (March forecast: 1.0% and 1.7% respectively). [1] The crisis in the Middle East is driving up energy prices and weighing on the global economy. Uncertainty remains high.
Responsible Business Conduct: OECD gives Switzerland high marks
The Swiss National Contact Point for Responsible Business Conduct, which is based within the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), has undergone an review by the relevant OECD committee. On 17 June 2026, the OECD recognised the Swiss National Contact Point for its high level of professionalism and effectiveness. At the same time, the report contains recommendations aimed at further strengthening the visibility, transparency and impact of the mechanism.
SECO: Ordinance on Measures Relating to the Situation in Ukraine
On 15.06.2026 the Federal Department of Economic Affairs EAER has amended annex 8 to the ordinance. In this process, 16 individuals and 7 organizations were added to the annex. The measures come into force at 11 pm on 16.06.2026.
SECO: Ordinance imposing measures against Syria
On 15 June 2026 the Federal Department of Economic Affairs EAER has amended annex 7 to the ordinance. The entries concerning 18 individuals and 4 entities have been modified. In addition, 7 entries have been removed. The measures come into force at 11 pm on 16 June 2026.
Sanctions: Ordinance on measures against individuals and entities who support Hamas or the Palestinian Islamic Jihad
On 15 June 2026 the Federal Department of Economic Affairs EAER has amended the annex of the ordinance on measures against individuals and entities who support Hamas or the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Ten individuals have been added to the annex. The measures come into force on 16 June 2026 at 11 p.m.
Consumer sentiment slightly lower than a year ago
In May 2026 the consumer sentiment index stood at –38 points. This is 2 points lower than in May 2025. The following sub-indices are lower than in May 2025: economic outlook and financial outlook. The following sub-indices have barely changed compared to May 2025: past financial situation and moment to make major purchases.
Investment Screening Ordinance: Federal Council opens consultation
On 12 June, the Federal Council opened the consultation on the Investment Screening Ordinance, which sets out the implementing provisions for the Investment Screening Act passed by Parliament on 19 December 2025.
Sanctions: Ordinance on measures against Sudan
On 4 June 2026, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) has amended annex 2 of the ordinance on measures against Sudan. Seven individuals have been added to the annex. The measures come into force on 5 June 2026 at 11 p.m.
Federal government to step up support for sustainable infrastructure in developing countries
Switzerland is to provide USD 70 million in support of the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG). The Federal Council took this decision at its meeting on 5 June. PIDG mobilises private sector capital to develop sustainable basic infrastructure in sub-Saharan Africa and South and Southeast Asia.
US additional tariffs: Switzerland continuing negotiations
On 5 June, the Federal Council discussed the next steps regarding the US Trade Representative’s Section 301 investigations. The Federal Council strongly rejects the allegations raised in the investigation into imports of goods produced with forced labour and will set out its arguments in writing once again. At the same time, trade negotiations are continuing.
OECD Ministerial Meeting on Industrial Policy
The President of the Swiss Confederation, Guy Parmelin, will lead the Swiss delegation at the next Meeting of the Council at Ministerial Level of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), to be held in Paris on 3 and 4 June 2026. This meeting, themed “Getting industrial policies right for open markets, growth and prosperity”, will offer ministers the opportunity, at a time of geopolitical tensions, to discuss industrial policy, its implications and risks, as well as the OECD’s strategic directions.
SECO: Ordinance on measures against Myanmar
On 1 June 2026, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER has amended annex 1 of the ordinance on measures against Myanmar. One individual has been removed from the annex and 42 entries have been amended. The measures come into force on 2 June 2026 at 11 p.m.
Gross domestic product in the first quarter of 2026: Growth picks up at the start of the year
In the first quarter of 2026, Switzerland’s gross domestic product (GDP) adjusted for sporting events grew by 0.4%, following growth of 0.2% in the previous quarter.(1) (2) The industrial sector was a key driver of growth. Growth in the services sector was subdued, with varied results across segments. Domestic final demand was weak.
Switzerland launches call for investment projects involving the Swiss private sector to support reconstruction in Ukraine
The third call for proposals aimed at supporting reconstruction in Ukraine involving the Swiss private sector was launched today. The focus is on investment projects aimed at constructing facilities for long-term production and/or operations in Ukraine. The federal government is providing up to CHF 50 million to co-finance the projects.
Export control exemptions to apply to all EU and EFTA states
On 27 May 2026, the Federal Council decided to extend country-specific exemptions under Swiss export control legislation on trade in military equipment to include all EU and EFTA states. The annexes to three federal ordinances will be amended accordingly. As of 1 July, states added to the lists will benefit from the same concessions as those already applicable to most EU member states and to Norway.
Sanctions: Ordinance on measures against persons, groups, undertakings and entities associated with ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida
The UN sanctions committee has amended the list of sanctioned individuals, companies and organizations. The SESAM database has been updated accordingly. On 4 March 2016 the Federal Council has adopted the Ordinance on the automatic application of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists. Hence, the amendments of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists enter into force in Switzerland without delay.
Ukraine: Switzerland expands its sanctions lists
The Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) expanded the sanctions lists concerning Russia and Belarus on 22 May. Switzerland is thus adopting various changes that the EU decided on as part of its 20th package of sanctions. The measures come into force at 11pm on 22 May.
GDP flash for the first quarter of 2026: Growth accelerates compared to the previous quarter
According to the early estimate of Switzerland's quarterly real GDP approximately 45 days after the quarter end ('GDP flash'), Swiss economic output is estimated to have grown by 0.5 % in the first quarter of 2026 [1]. Both the industrial and services sectors contributed to this growth.Note: The flash estimate is based on early information available on the production components of GDP. Estimates are used where values are not yet available. The result may therefore change after the complete and updated source data become available. The regular release of quarterly GDP figures, including details on production, expenditure and income as well as updated calculations for the previous quarters, will be published on 1 June 2026.[1] Adjusted for seasonal/calendar effects and sporting events. Growth relative to the previous quarter.
Consumer sentiment slightly higher than a year ago
In April 2026 the consumer sentiment index stood at –40 points. This is 2 points higher than in April 2025. The following sub-indices are higher than in April 2025: economic outlook and past financial situation. The following sub-index is lower than a year ago: moment to make major purchases. The following sub-index has barely changed compared to April 2025: financial outlook.
SECO: Ordinance on Measures Relating to the Situation in Ukraine
On 7.05.2026 the Federal Department of Economic Affairs EAER has amended the formular “ Reporting services and software (art. 28e (9) Ukraine Ordinance) ”.