Switzerland is abolishing import duties on industrial products at the beginning of next year. This is intended to simplify access for Swiss companies to intermediate products from third countries. In addition, industrial products can be imported more easily.

Import duties on industrial products in Switzerland will be eliminated. (Image source: Pixabay)

Which industrial products will be exempt from customs duties?

Industrial tariffs will be abolished for all industrial products. The only exceptions are two product groups:

  • Chapter 35 goods (adhesives, modified starches, enzymes, proteins)
  • Goods of Chapter 38 (various products of the chemical industry)

Preferential proof of origin required in certain cases

The elimination of industrial tariffs generally means that preferential proof of origin is also no longer necessary (zero percent tariff on imports).

However, there are exceptions here as well:

  • The goods do not remain in Switzerland, but are exported to a third country with preferential treatment
  • If cumulation of origin is applied (e.g. within the framework of the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Agreement.

Detailed information can be found on the website of the Swiss Confederation.

Import declaration with new customs tariff numbers

Importers must note that new customs tariff numbers will apply from January 1, 2024. The import customs declaration must still be made – it will not be affected by the elimination of industrial tariffs.

Source: GTAI (german)