Ski resorts and gold - the economic ties between Switzerland and Kyrgyzstan

Switzerland and Kyrgyzstan have maintained close relations since the latter's independence. At present, however, economic relations are mainly characterized by the gold trade and SECO's economic development cooperation. In 2024, gold worth 1.6 billion Swiss francs was imported into Switzerland. Exports from Switzerland to Kyrgyzstan amounted to 17 million Swiss francs last year. But the Central Asian country has much more to offer. At the fifth meeting of the Swiss-Kyrgyzstan Joint Economic Commission, representatives of the Swiss private sector were able to see this for themselves.

Away from gold, towards diversification

Kyrgyzstan is currently highly dependent on gold mining. In order to diversify the economy, the country is investing in the agricultural, textile and IT sectors as well as in renewable energies. This also creates new opportunities for Swiss companies. As bilateral trade relations are currently rather low, there is even greater potential to expand them further.

In addition to the potential, the right economic policy environment is also needed to deepen economic relations. For example, business-friendly framework conditions, rapid and clear implementation of regulations as well as planning and legal certainty are important criteria for Swiss companies operating abroad. The Kyrgyz government's latest reforms are an important first step in this direction.

Infrastructure in the mountains

The mountainous country is a challenge for all infrastructures. Nevertheless, Kyrgyzstan is investing in this area in several ways. On the one hand, new cable cars and ski resorts are planned to further promote tourism. Secondly, the expansion of the "middle corridor", a new trade route linking China and Europe via Central Asia, the Caucasus and Turkey, requires major investment in rail transport. Thanks to their many years of experience with infrastructure development in impassable areas, Swiss companies can provide support not only with products but also with expertise and an exchange of experience.