A new Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the UK and Switzerland will unlock an estimated £5.2 billion a year in additional UK services exports, the UK Government says.
Switzerland is the UK's sixth largest services export market with over £30 billion in bilateral services trade in 2025. Services contribute to 81% of UK economic output and 83% of employment, the UK Government added.
The new provisions also include visa-free travel for up to 90 days a year to Switzerland for UK services professionals. UK businesses will be able to transfer people to work in Switzerland for up to five years, without being subject to stringent economic needs tests, making it easier to secure Swiss work permits for UK graduates in areas like finance, insurance and consultancy.
UK nationals will also soon be able to use Swiss e-gates. Further benefits include an intention to include surcharge-free international mobile roaming in the FTA, so tourists and business people would be able to use their phones in Switzerland as part of their regular phone contract, without extra roaming charges.
Christopher Nott, Senior Partner at Capital Law, said:
“This FTA is a terrific result for Capital Law, our clients and Cardiff's growing reputation as a leading professional services hub. The agreement locks in legal market access, reduces unnecessary barriers and provides the certainty we need to pursue opportunities in Switzerland. As a firm that already works in Switzerland and advises Swiss clients, with one of our Partners based there, we understand the value of a strong and predictable trading relationship. It's exactly the kind of practical, modern trade deal that helps UK businesses compete and succeed internationally.”
Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:
“The UK-Switzerland trade deal shows how the UK Government is delivering real results for businesses in Wales and across the UK.
“Wales already has a thriving services sector. This landmark agreement supports further economic growth and encourages job creation by opening new doors for businesses and enhancing Wales's reputation on the world stage.”
