Foreign trade

Useful information and links for SMEs concerning foreign trade: federal customs administration and formalities for import-export, opening an establishment or a subsidiary abroad, risk control.

Importing for SMEs: How to import merchandise from abroad

Importing SMEs are required to declare all goods crossing the Swiss border to the Swiss Customs Administration (FCA).

The closed door of a cargo container (of goods)

Exporting for SMEs: customs declarations and other formalities

Swiss SMEs exporting products overseas need to consider a certain number of formalities, including a mandatory export declaration.

A man stands before a stylized image of the five continents

How to choose your partner country

For an SME, foreign trade can represent an extraordinary growth opportunity. But the partner country must be chosen with care.

A group of people cross a pedestrian crossing

Why establish a subsidiary overseas?

Setting up a subsidiary overseas can prove decisive in establishing a company on a new market. However, this is a process that requires significant planning.

A cargo port with a large number of containers

Switzerland Global Enterprise: support for company export activities

Switzerland Global Enterprise, the center of competence for the promotion of foreign trade in Switzerland, offers various programs supporting SMEs.

A man wearing an helmet and a safety vest inspects the unloading of a container.

Protection against import-export risks

Swiss SMEs working in the import-export sector are exposed to multiple risks, but protection is available. Here is some advice.

People at exhibition stands with Swiss flags

Trade Fair and Project Committee (TFPC)

Export promotion takes place amongst increasingly globalized competition. In order to support the market presence of Swiss companies, the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO provides subsidies which can be utilized for joint promotions abroad.

Last modification 24.01.2022

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