In brief
On November 4, former Swiss ambassador Jean‑Jacques de Dardel told Xinhua that the recently upgraded China‑Switzerland free‑trade agreement will encourage companies in both countries to explore new sectors such as pharmaceuticals, machinery and technology. Switzerland, the first Western country to sign a comprehensive trade pact with China, sees the deal as a sign of resilience amid global trade uncertainties. The ambassador highlighted Swiss Centers’ role in helping Swiss businesses enter the Chinese market and noted an expanded Swiss pavilion at Shanghai’s Import Expo.
On Nov. 4, former Swiss ambassador Jean‑Jacques de Dardel told Xinhua that the upgraded free‑trade agreement (FTA) between China and Switzerland will deepen economic ties and encourage more businesses to look for opportunities in each other’s markets.
De Dardel, now president of the Swiss Centers Group, recalled that Switzerland was the first continental European country to sign an FTA with China in 2013, and that China signed a protocol in October to upgrade the agreement.
The new FTA will lift tariffs or grant exemptions in key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, machinery and technology, according to de Dardel, which he said should spark renewed Swiss interest in China’s market.
He also said Chinese firms will likely increase their focus on Switzerland and the wider European market, easing trade uncertainty for companies on both sides.
Swiss Centers, a nonprofit that supports Swiss companies entering Asian markets, will help firms take advantage of the upgraded deal by promoting trade perspectives and sharing knowledge about the vast Chinese market.
At the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, Swiss Centers is set to host its largest‑ever pavilion, de Dardel noted, as part of a broader effort to showcase Swiss innovation.
De Dardel stressed that the upgraded FTA exemplifies the resilience of China‑Switzerland economic relations, and that both governments’ positive attitude will strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation.
