Bilaterals III: Strengthening competitiveness in uncertain times

The Federal Council today adopted the dispatch on the third bilateral agreement package with the EU, thereby opening the parliamentary process. The Bilaterals III are intended to stabilize and further develop bilateral relations with Switzerland's most important trading partner in a targeted manner.

Strengthening competitiveness in uncertain times

The bilateral approach has proven to be a tailor-made solution for Switzerland. Bilaterals III offers the opportunity to secure and continue this successful approach. Stable and reliable relations with the EU are of central importance for Switzerland as an export nation, particularly in view of geopolitical uncertainties. At a time when the rules-based trading system is coming under increasing pressure, secure market access and clear framework conditions are crucial for investment, innovation and employment. There are no equivalent alternatives to the bilateral approach and its continuation with the Bilaterals III. Turning away from this would significantly weaken Switzerland's economy.

Business clearly supports Bilaterale III - Switzerland going it alone is not an option

economiesuisse has spoken out clearly in favor of Bilaterals III in the consultation process. The advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages from the point of view of the economy. With the new package of agreements, Switzerland's optimal access to the EU internal market can be secured in the long term. The updating of the existing internal market agreements ensures legal certainty and stable framework conditions - a decisive factor for internationally active companies and export-oriented SMEs in Switzerland. Equally important are the planned cooperation programs in strategic areas of the future. In particular, the association with the European research program Horizon Europe strengthens Switzerland's capacity for innovation, facilitates access to cutting-edge research and promotes the international networking of companies and research institutions. The electricity agreement is an important building block for a secure, clean and affordable energy supply. The free choice of supplier and the safeguarding of electricity trading with Europe represent added value for our population and our companies. Overall, these elements make a significant contribution to Switzerland's long-term attractiveness as a business location.

One thing is clear: isolation is not an option for Switzerland and its strong export economy. It would be wrong in terms of economic, social and security policy. It is crucial that Switzerland continues to focus on openness and a cooperative relationship with its European neighbors in the future. With the Bilaterals III, Switzerland is laying the foundations for reliable relations with the EU, by far its most important trading partner.

Lean and business-friendly implementation centrally

economiesuisse will analyze the published message in detail and contribute constructively to the parliamentary process. The decisive factor here is a lean and business-friendly implementation in Swiss legislation that guarantees legal certainty and avoids additional bureaucratic burdens. A final assessment of the overall package and the corresponding positionwill be made after the parliamentary consultation has been completed.