In brief
The upgraded China‑Switzerland free trade agreement, formalized in October, is expected to foster deeper economic ties, according to former Swiss ambassador Jean‑Jacques de Dardel. He highlighted sectors such as pharmaceuticals, machinery, and technology, and noted that Swiss centres will promote business opportunities. The deal signals resilience amid global trade uncertainty, he said.
The upgraded China‑Switzerland free trade agreement (FTA), formalized in a protocol signed in October, is expected to deepen economic ties, former Swiss ambassador Jean‑Jacques de Dardel told Xinhua on Nov. 4. De Dardel said the new FTA will encourage more businesses from both countries to explore opportunities in each other’s markets and strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation.
He noted that Switzerland’s approach, which values neutrality and economic stability, is well recognized by China and that the partnership has long been intensive and balanced. De Dardel predicted a renewed Swiss interest in China’s market, particularly in sectors where tariff reductions or exemptions apply under the upgraded agreement, and a growing interest from Chinese firms in Switzerland and the wider European market.
Jean‑Jacques de Dardel, former Swiss ambassador to China, said:
"This brought both nations to open‑mindedly explore ways to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation," he added.
De Dardel highlighted key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, machinery and technology as areas where the FTA will foster growth. He stressed that the deal demonstrates resilience against global trade uncertainty and reflects the pioneering attitude that has characterized China‑Swiss relations since Switzerland was the first continental European country to sign an FTA with the People's Republic of China in 2013.
He added:
"These accomplishments set an example and validate the pioneering attitude which characterizes our bilateral relations," he said.
Swiss Centres, a non‑profit organization that supports Swiss companies entering the Chinese and Asian markets, will host its largest-ever pavilion at the China International Import Expo opening in Shanghai on Thursday, according to de Dardel. He said the upgraded FTA will help businesses seize opportunities and further strengthen construction and production collaboration between the two economies.
