International Networking

The Swiss economy is strongly internationally networked – every second Swiss Franc is generated outside of Switzerland. In order to create the best marketing conditions for you, Switzerland has concluded numerous free trade agreements, and is a member of the WTO. The free trade agreement with the EU and EFTA provides for the fully duty-free, quota-free import and export of industrial goods on European markets. Although this does not mean that the goods are exempt from customs clearance, exemption from duty and quotas does bring with it the great advantage of largely automated customs clearance via IT applications, with no further effort being required on your part.

In Switzerland customs duty is levied based on the weight of the goods in question, so duty is generally lower than in other countries. Furthermore, goods imported into Switzerland are always subject to VAT, with the nominal tax rate being 8%. Goods that are only in interim storage in Switzerland can also be stored in bonded warehouses, exempt from customs duty and taxes. The personal effects of individuals relocating to Switzerland which are intended for their own further use are exempt from duty.

The Swiss Federal Customs Administration considers itself a service provider, and is happy to inform and advise you on practical issues. The Tariffs (Tares) are available free of charge online. Thurgau belongs to the Schaffhausen District Customs Office, with which we would be happy to put you in contact.