In brief
In a written interview with Xinhua on November 4, former Swiss ambassador Jean‑Jacques de Dardel highlighted how the upgraded free‑trade agreement (FTA) with China will spur new market opportunities for businesses in both countries. De Dardel underscored key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, machinery and technology, and said the pact demonstrates resilience amid global trade uncertainty. He also noted a renewed interest from Swiss firms in the Chinese market and Chinese firms in Switzerland and Europe.
Geneva – In a written interview with Xinhua on November 4, 2026, former Swiss ambassador to China and president of the Swiss Centers Group, Jean‑Jacques de Dardel, said the upgraded free‑trade agreement (FTA) between China and Switzerland will deepen economic ties and encourage more businesses to explore each other's markets.
De Dardel recalled that Switzerland was the first continental European country to sign an FTA with China in 2013, and that the two nations upgraded that pact in a protocol signed in October of this year. He emphasized that the new agreement will boost trade in sectors where tariff reductions or exemptions apply, and that Swiss companies anticipate increased interest in the Chinese market.
"With the upgraded FTA, more businesses on both sides are expected to focus on new opportunities, which are enhanced by the positive attitude of both governments toward each other," the former ambassador said in the interview.
He pointed to pharmaceuticals, machinery and technology as key sectors that will benefit from the deal. "The upgraded FTA will create a resilient framework against global trade uncertainty," de Dardel added, and said Swis Centres will help firms seize these opportunities by promoting trade perspectives and sharing knowledge about the Chinese market’s vast potential.
At the China International Import Expo scheduled to open in Shanghai on Thursday, Swiss Centres will host its largest‑ever pavilion, the ambassador said, further signalling the growing bilateral commerce.
