Doing Business with Switzerland

Exporting goods to Switzerland involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Research Market Requirements

   • Understand Switzerland’s import regulations and product standards.

2. Identify Your Product’s HS Code

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code for tariff and regulation details.

3. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary export documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.

4. Check Tariff and Non-Tariff Barriers

   • Verify any tariffs and ensure compliance with non-tariff measures.

5. Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder

   • Choose a logistics provider experienced in shipping to Switzerland.

6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Regulations

   • Ensure your products meet Swiss labeling and packaging standards.

7. Arrange for Insurance

   • Secure insurance to cover potential shipping risks.

8. Submit Customs Declaration

   • Work with your freight forwarder to submit the necessary customs declaration.

9. Track and Confirm Delivery

   • Monitor the shipment to ensure it reaches the destination safely.

Key Contacts

• Swiss Customs Administration
  • Website: Swiss Customs
• Switzerland Global Enterprise
  • Website: Switzerland Global Enterprise

Importing goods into Switzerland involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Register as an Importer

   • Ensure your business is registered and has a Swiss UID number.

2. Classify Your Goods

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code for your products to understand tariffs and duties.

3. Check Import Requirements

   • Verify if your goods need specific licenses or permits under Swiss regulations.

4. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary documents: commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and certificate of origin.

5. Select a Customs Broker

   • Engage a licensed customs broker to assist with the import process.

6. Submit Import Declaration

   • File the import declaration through the Swiss Customs’ online portal, e-dec.

7. Pay Duties and Taxes

   • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties and VAT.

8. Arrange for Cargo Clearance

   • Coordinate with your freight forwarder or customs broker for the clearance and delivery of goods.

Key Contacts

• Swiss Customs Administration
  • Website: Swiss Customs
• Switzerland Global Enterprise
  • Website: Switzerland Global Enterprise

Incorporating a company in Switzerland involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of company, such as a Limited Liability Company (GmbH) or a Corporation (AG).

2. Register the Company Name

   • Ensure your company name is unique and register it with the Swiss Commercial Register.

3. Prepare Incorporation Documents

   • Draft the Articles of Association and other necessary documents.

4. Open a Swiss Bank Account

   • Deposit the required minimum share capital (CHF 20,000 for GmbH, CHF 100,000 for AG).

5. Notarize Documents

   • Have the incorporation documents notarized by a Swiss notary.

6. Submit Registration Application

   • File the application with the Commercial Register, including notarized documents and proof of share capital.

7. Register for Taxes

   • Register the company for VAT and other relevant taxes with the Swiss Federal Tax Administration.

8. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Apply for any industry-specific permits or licenses if required.

Costs

• Registration Fee: Varies by canton, generally between CHF 600 and CHF 1,200.
• Minimum Share Capital: CHF 20,000 for GmbH, CHF 100,000 for AG.
• Notary Fees: Vary depending on the complexity of the documents.

Key Contacts

• Swiss Commercial Register
  • Website: Swiss Commercial Register
• Swiss Federal Tax Administration
  • Website: Swiss Federal Tax Administration

Setting up a manufacturing plant in Switzerland involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Feasibility Study

   • Assess market demand, location suitability, and resource availability.

2. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of business entity, such as a Limited Liability Company (GmbH) or Corporation (AG).

3. Register the Company

   • Register your business with the Swiss Commercial Register.

4. Secure Financing

   • Arrange funding through banks or investors.

5. Select a Location

   • Choose an industrial area with access to necessary infrastructure and resources.

6. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Apply for environmental, health, and safety permits from local authorities.

7. Design and Construct the Facility

   • Hire architects and contractors to design and build the plant according to regulations.

8. Purchase and Install Equipment

   • Acquire machinery that meets safety and operational standards.

9. Hire and Train Employees

   • Recruit skilled workers and provide necessary training.

10. Set Up Supply Chain and Distribution

    • Establish relationships with suppliers and distributors.

Key Contacts

• Swiss Commercial Register
  • Website: Swiss Commercial Register
• Switzerland Global Enterprise
  • Website: Switzerland Global Enterprise
• Swiss Federal Office for the Environment
  • Website: Swiss Federal Office for the Environment

Registering a trademark in Switzerland involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Check the availability of your trademark through the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI).

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Gather necessary details, including the trademark design and list of goods/services.

3. File the Application

   • Submit your application online via the IPI’s e-trademark system or by mail.

4. Pay the Application Fee

   • Standard fees start at CHF 550 for one class of goods or services.

5. Application Examination

   • The IPI examines the application for compliance and potential conflicts.

6. Publication for Opposition

   • If approved, the trademark is published for opposition, allowing others to contest it.

7. Receive Registration Certificate

   • If no oppositions are filed, you receive the official trademark registration certificate.

Costs

• Application Fee: Starting at CHF 550 for one class

Key Contacts

• Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI)
  • Website: IPI

Resolving commercial disputes in Switzerland involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Consult Legal Counsel

   • Engage a lawyer experienced in Swiss commercial law for advice.

2. Attempt Negotiation

   • Try to resolve the dispute amicably through direct negotiation between parties.

3. Mediation

   • Use mediation services to facilitate a resolution. This approach is often quicker and less costly.

4. Arbitration

   • Consider arbitration through institutions like the Swiss Chambers’ Arbitration Institution for a binding decision.

5. Litigation

   • If necessary, file a lawsuit in the appropriate Swiss court. Be prepared for a formal legal process.

6. Enforcement of Judgments

   • Ensure the court’s or arbitration’s decision is enforced through the relevant authorities.

Costs

• Legal Fees: Vary depending on the complexity and duration of the dispute.
• Court Fees: Required for litigation, depending on the case specifics.
• Mediation/Arbitration Fees: Vary based on the service provider.

Key Contacts

• Swiss Federal Supreme Court
  • Website: Swiss Federal Supreme Court
• Swiss Chambers’ Arbitration Institution
  • Website: Swiss Arbitration

Resolving commercial disputes in Switzerland involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Consult Legal Counsel

   • Engage a lawyer experienced in Swiss commercial law for advice.

2. Attempt Negotiation

   • Try to resolve the dispute amicably through direct negotiation between parties.

3. Mediation

   • Use mediation services to facilitate a resolution. This approach is often quicker and less costly.

4. Arbitration

   • Consider arbitration via the Swiss Chambers’ Arbitration Institution for a binding decision.

5. Litigation

   • If necessary, file a lawsuit in the appropriate Swiss court. Be prepared for a formal legal process.

6. Enforcement of Judgments

   • Ensure the court’s or arbitration’s decision is enforced through the relevant authorities.

Costs

• Legal Fees: Vary depending on the complexity and duration of the dispute.
• Court Fees: Required for litigation, depending on the case specifics.
• Mediation/Arbitration Fees: Vary based on the service provider.

Key Contacts

• Swiss Federal Supreme Court
  • Website: Swiss Federal Supreme Court
• Swiss Chambers’ Arbitration Institution
  • Website: Swiss Arbitration