Why Invest in Switzerland

Switzerland is an open gateway to European, African and Middle-Eastern markets, due to its strategic location. Switzerland offers well-developed infrastructures, as well as a competitive business environment. The Swiss market is a good testing ground for the introduction of new high technology and spends the most capital in the world in IT. Switzerland is also one of the world’s most advanced countries in research and development. Last, but not least, tourism is a key economic sector, generating 6% of the Swiss gross domestic product.

In 2002, Switzerland was ranked 15th in the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitive Index, but by 2009, it climbed up the list to the first position.

Stable economy

The nation’s bank secrecy and monetary security policies have turned Switzerland into a perfect destination for investors. Strategically located on the continent of Europe, Switzerland has an accessible infrastructure network for international trades. Besides, its stability is also provided by the agreements signed with the European Union that offer a similar business environment as inside the EU.

Workforce

Swiss employees are highly qualified, many of them having a higher education degree. Switzerland is also famous for its multilingual employees, while the majority of Swiss managers have more international experience than average. Switzerland remains the country with the highest quality of living according to a governmental survey.

Taxes

Switzerland offers tax incentives on federal, as well as on cantonal level. Many tax incentives are offered in order to attract companies to establish operations and invest in their jurisdictions. Some cantons go as far as to drop off taxes for new firms for a period that can go up to ten years.  At a federal level, there is also the possibility to benefit from partial or full corporate income tax breaks for up to 10 years. However, tax breaks are available for investment projects that meet certain requirements, for example creation of new jobs or non-competition with existing businesses. When it comes to cantonal level, business incentives are generally granted in connection with the creation of at least 10 to 20 new jobs locally. The Government also encourages infrastructural investment in tourist facilities, communications and training facilities with subsidised loans up to 25% of a financing package.

BridgeWest offers company registration in Switzerland, including virtual office and other related services.