Switzerland may be known for its strong banking industry, but it has so much more to offer for investors and entrepreneurs. It has been ranked as one of the most innovative countries in Europe and competes with bigger economies in the ease of doing business score. Multinationals and SMEs alike have an opportunity to thrive in Switzerland.
Here are some of the reasons why Switzerland remains one of the most attractive business destinations and why you should move your business there.
1. Stable Government and Favorable Regulatory Environment
Switzerland is one of the few countries in the world where there is a stable political environment. They have managed to thrive on their own despite their status as a non-EU member. The stable governance structure and politics has allowed for stable and friendly business legislation.
The legal system in Switzerland is one of the best in the world. Businesses are well protected under the law and can operate without fear of unfair competition or treatment. As we all know, good governance equals good business; this is one of the reasons why big multinationals choose Switzerland as a haven for their investments.
A Strong Currency- The Swiss Franc
Inflation is an enemy to many businesses, both local and international. The Swiss currency has shown its resilience in times of crisis and economic turbulence among its neighbors. It’s one of the most stable currencies in Europe. If you want a currency that is guaranteed to hold its value in the long term, you should be looking at the Swiss Franc.
Moreover, a strong Swiss Franc is good for those considering business relocation to Switzerland in several ways. They have a lot of leeway on imports, can have loads of disposable income and don’t need to ship their profits back home for safekeeping.
3. High-Quality Workforce
For many years, Switzerland has put a lot of emphasis on improving the quality of its workforce through education, promoting innovation and high standards. Indeed, the World Bank and other institutions have ranked Swiss Education as the best in the world. The country is also ranked first ahead of the United States and Sweden in the 2019 Global Innovation Index.
4. A Deliberate Focus to Business and Foreign Investment
Authorities in Switzerland have managed to position the country as an attractive business destination. This is achieved through strong institutions, a favorable tax regime, marketing and direct promotion. They have made deliberate moves to help both small and large businesses to grow and achieve success in the country.
5. Location and Agreements
Switzerland’s strategic position in Europe makes it an attractive business destination. It is surrounded by big and stable economies such as Germany, Italy, and France. In addition to that, Switzerland boasts of a sophisticated international transportation system which includes; airports, Rail, and Road.
It may not be a member of the European Union, but Switzerland has managed to sign free trade agreements with many countries in Europe and around the world. Schengen area residents and businesses enjoy a lot of freedoms, including being able to travel to Switzerland Visa-free. All these factors make Switzerland one of the most attractive destinations for companies.
6. A Multi-Lingual Country
Switzerland has another peculiarity that attracts business from surrounding countries and from elsewhere in the world. There are four official languages used in the country. Three of them (Italian, French, and German) are languages spoken in many countries in Europe and former European colonies in other parts of the world. Most educated people in Switzerland also speak fluent English.
7. You Will Be in Good Company
Switzerland has managed to attract some of the best and most innovative companies from around the globe so will be in good company. It has the largest concentration of Fortune 500 companies such as; Google, Nestle, IBM, Glencore and many more. The country has attracted top research institutions and managed to build some of its own.
In Conclusion
Switzerland has a lot to offer for businesses looking for a place to open shop or call home. These and many other reasons should motivate you to choose the country as your next business destination. All the best.
