On the draft Council decision on the conclusion of a broad package of agreements between the European Union, of the one part, and the Swiss Confederation, of the other part, to consolidate, deepen and expand their bilateral relations, and amending Decisions 2011/51/EU and 2011/738/EU

Switzerland is a like-minded and strategic partner of the European Union, with deeply integrated economies and closely interconnected markets. The EU and Switzerland are also important partners in international fora like the World Trade Organisation (WTO), where they share a strong commitment to a rules-based multilateral trading system. In addition, EU and Switzerland are facing a growing number of common challenges, including Russia’s aggression of Ukraine, economic security issues and unfair competition from non-market economies.

The modernised EU–Switzerland package establishes a stable, forward-looking framework that reflects this high level of integration and adapts it to current economic and geopolitical realities. By enabling frictionless access to a market of 460 million consumers, reducing technical barriers and aligning standards in key sectors, the package enhances legal certainty and facilitates trade, including in areas such as medical devices and agri-food products. It also strengthens cross-border supply chains and provides clearer and more consistent rules for individuals living, working or studying across the EU–Swiss border.

The EU accounts for around 53% of Switzerland’s total trade, while Switzerland remains one of the EU’s top global trading partners. In 2024, bilateral trade in goods reached €328.3 billion, with EU exports of €193.4 billion and a surplus of €58.6 billion. Investment ties are equally significant, with EU companies accounting for more than two-thirds of foreign direct investment in Switzerland, while Swiss investments in the EU amount to approximately €588 billion. The EU is Switzerland’s principal trading partner in services as well. In 2023, total bilateral trade in services reached €245 billion, accounting for nearly 9% of the EU’s total trade in services and for 40% of Swiss exports and 45% of imports.

In a context of growing global uncertainty, the deepening and modernisation of relations with a trusted, like-minded partner contributes to strengthening economic resilience, securing supply chains and reinforcing a rules-based international trading system.

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The Committee on International Trade calls on the Committee on Foreign Affairs, as the committee responsible, to recommend approval of the draft Council decision on the conclusion of a broad package of agreements to consolidate, deepen and expand the bilateral relations with the Swiss Confederation.

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