In brief
Swiss former ambassador Jean‑Jacques de Dardel says the October 2026 protocol that upgraded the China‑Switzerland free‑trade agreement will encourage more businesses to explore each other’s markets, especially in pharmaceuticals, machinery and technology. Switzerland, a long‑time neutral partner of China, views the deal as a sign of resilience amid global trade uncertainty. De Dardel also anticipates renewed Swiss interest in China’s market and growing Chinese support for Swiss enterprises within Europe.
In Geneva, former Swiss ambassador Jean‑Jacques de Dardel told Xinhua on Nov. 4 that the upgraded China‑Switzerland free‑trade agreement (FTA), signed in October, is expected to deepen economic ties and encourage more businesses from both countries to explore opportunities in each other's markets.
De Dardel highlighted that the deal will lower tariffs or offer exemptions in key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, machinery and technology, prompting a resurgence of Swiss interest in China and fostering greater Chinese investment in Switzerland and Europe.
He noted that Switzerland is one of the first Western countries to recognise the People’s Republic of China, having signed its first FTA with China in 2013, and that the country’s neutral status is respected by China as a trustworthy partner for economic development.
"This brought both nations to open‑mindedly explore ways to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation," de Dardel said, stressing that both governments’ positive attitude will help businesses focus on new opportunities.
De Dardel also mentioned that Swiss Centres, a non‑profit organization that supports Swiss companies entering Chinese and Asian markets, will host its largest‑ever pavilion at the Shanghai International Import Expo, underscoring the trade‑growth potential of the upgraded FTA.
"These accomplishments set an example and validate the pioneering attitude which characterizes our bilateral relations," de Dardel said in the interview.
He believes that the upgraded FTA will further strengthen the already intensive and balanced Chinese‑Swiss economic relationship, and expects the agreement to spur reciprocal growth in both economies.
