«Your hard work and innovations contribute to the economic prosperity of both Switzerland and China»
Shanghai, 25.04.2025 — Rede von Bundesrat Ignazio Cassis, Vorsteher des Eidgenössischen Departements für auswärtige Angelegenheiten (EDA), anlässlich des Empfangs von Vertreterinnen und Vertreter der Schweizer Wirtschaft im Generalkonsulat in Shanghai, China – Es gilt das gesprochene Wort
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Thank you for your warm welcome in Shanghai.
It’s impressive to see so many representatives of the Swiss community, and particularly the Swiss business community here.
Your presence embodies the dynamic spirit of Swiss entrepreneurship, a spirit reflected by our strong economic presence in Shanghai with around 500 companies and a rich history:
- In 1912, we established our primary merchant society here to support bilateral trade.
- In 1921, we opened our first official consulate in China, also right here in Shanghai.
Today Swiss companies are leaders in fields like precision engineering, pharmaceuticals, financial services, and cutting-edge technologies, constantly innovating and setting high standards.
Your hard work and innovations not only boost our reputation but also contribute to the economic prosperity of both Switzerland and China.
75 years of diplomatic relations
Dear Guests
Yesterday, I met with Foreign Minister Wang Yi to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Sino-Swiss diplomatic relations. Switzerland was among the first Western nations to recognize the People's Republic of China on January 17, 1950, establishing diplomatic ties later that year.
Minister Wang and I celebrated the pioneering spirit that defines our relationship – especially in economic cooperation with two historical milestones:
- Sulzer and BBC – now ABB – signing license agreements in 1965.
- Schindler establishing the first foreign industrial joint venture in China in 1980.
Switzerland was the first European country to sign a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with China twelve years ago, which significantly boosted our bilateral trade. The value of our exports to China nearly doubled, and imports from China increased by almost 60%.
Today, China stands as our most important economic partner in Asia.
In 2016, we reinforced our ties through the Innovative Strategic Partnership, initiating over 30 regular dialogues covering trade, finance, labor, intellectual property, security, human rights, education, and research.
Swiss commitment to economic openness
Given today's volatile geopolitical climate, where trade is often seen through the lens of national security, it's crucial to maintain dialogue with China.
Switzerland's prosperity, with its strong economy but domestic market of only 9 million consumers, depends above all on its access to international markets. It is essential for our country to remain integrated into global supply chains.
Our commitment to a rules-based international trading system was a key discussion point at the China International Machine Tool Fair in Beijing yesterday, where I met with 46 Swiss companies present in China.
Ladies and Gentlemen
In this intricate context Switzerland continues to expand and modernize its vast network of free trade agreements.
Last year alone, we signed new agreements with India, Kosovo, and Thailand and updated agreements with Chile and Ukraine.
This year, we finalized a new agreement with Malaysia.
We are also optimistic about concluding negotiations with Mercosur and Vietnam and modernizing our agreements with the United Kingdom, Mexico, and the South African Customs Union.
Upgrade of FTA with China
Last but not least, we're actively working to enhance our free trade agreement with China:
- We are aiming for duty-free market access for all Swiss industrial products. We seek to improve conditions for investments and enhance sustainability provisions.
- We are ambitious in all these respects because we will need to convince the parliament and very likely the Swiss people to vote «yes» for the enhanced agreement.
I hope for your support in convincing the Swiss people that free trade with China enhances our competitiveness!
As we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of our diplomatic relations, let's recognize the significant role played by the over 800 Swiss companies and the Swiss community in China.
I am deeply convinced that you will continue to create success stories here in China and back in Switzerland, with your commitment to quality and precision.
Our Embassy and Consulates are here to support you.
Thank you for your dedication and presence in China.