Free trade with India comes into force: how Swiss companies benefit

After years of negotiations and waiting for the referendum deadline, October 1, 2025 is the big day for free trade with India. On this day, the agreement will enter into force and companies will finally be able to take advantage of it. economiesuisse expressly welcomes this rapid entry into force. The free trade agreement with the world's most populous and economically fast-growing country has come at exactly the right time. The Swiss export industry is currently facing geopolitical tensions and trade policy uncertainties.

The agreement offers Swiss companies many advantages. For example, they will benefit from tariff concessions, as around 95% of customs duties on Swiss industrial exports will be eliminated immediately or gradually once the agreement enters into force. The free trade agreement will also improve the protection of intellectual property. The EFTA states are the first European partner with which India has brought such an agreement into force. This offers Swiss companies a decisive competitive advantage. The EU is currently still negotiating with India and the finalized agreement with the UK is in the ratification process.

How can Swiss companies make the best use of the agreement?

In order to effectively exploit the potential of the new free trade agreement, Swiss companies should now take a detailed look at the agreement. The text of the agreement and the associated annexes, such as the list of product-specific rules of origin, can be found on the EFTA website. In addition, the SECO and the BAZG have published further documents on the application of the agreement. The Swiss-Indian Chamber of Commerce or the Swiss Business Hub in Mumbai are also available to answer specific questions.

Diversification of Swiss foreign trade is key

Free trade agreements generally contribute to improved framework conditions for the Swiss export industry and increase its international competitiveness. Such aspects are key for the globally networked and strongly export-oriented Swiss economy. The constantly updated study by SECO on the use of free trade agreements also shows that Swiss companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), benefit greatly from free trade agreements. The further development of the free trade network will therefore remain important in the future. For example, rapid ratification of the EFTA-Mercosur free trade agreement must be ensured.