WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONG/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
8 August 2002
(02-4354)
Committee on Import Licensing Original:  English
AGREEMENT ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES
Notification under Article 7.3 of the Agreement
SWITZERLAND
The following notification, dated 18 July 2002, has been received from the Permanent Mission
of Switzerland.
_______________
I. AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS.............................................................................................2
HORIZONTAL REPLIES.......................................................................................................2
(i) Horses (A), livestock and breedi ng animals, bovine semen (B)..................................................6
(ii) Animals for slaughter, meat, pr epared meat products and eggs ................................................7
(iii) Milk, dair y products...................................................................................................... ..............9
(iv) Fresh fruit and vegetables (A), fruit for cider and fruit products (B), cut flowers (C),
frozen vegetables (D), potatoes (includi ng seed potatoes) and potato products (E),
fruit seedlin gs (F)............................................................................................................ ..........11
(v) Feed grain.................................................................................................................. ...............14
(vi) Grain for human consumption: Durum wheat (A), common wheat (B), coarse grain
for human consumption, such as barley, oats and maize (C) ...................................................15
(vii) Sugar (A), edible oils and fats (B) ....................................................................................... .....17
(viii) Grapes for pressi ng and grape juice ...................................................................................... ..18
(ix) Wine ....................................................................................................................... .................19
II. SANITARY AND PHYTOS ANITARY ME ASURES.........................................................21
(i) Import, transit and export of animals and animal products .....................................................21
(ii) Plants and pl ant products .................................................................................................. .......23
(iii) Forest reprodu ctive ma terial .............................................................................................. ......24
(iv) Protection of forest plants................................................................................................ .........26
(v) Transplants ................................................................................................................. ..............27
(vi) Blood, blood products and immunological products for human use ........................................29
(vii) Narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursors used and marketed for legal
purposes ....................................................................................................................... ............30G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 2
(viii) Et hanol .................................................................................................................. .................33
III. GOODS OF VITAL AGRICULT URAL AND INDUSTRIAL IMPORTANCE
SUBJECT TO COMPULSORY HOLDING OF STOCKS................................................34
IV. INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS ..................................................................................................35
(i) War material................................................................................................................ .............35
(ii) Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development,
Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their destruction
(CWC) .......................................................................................................................... .............37
(iii) Weapons, their accesso ries and ammunition............................................................................38
(iv) Explosive materials and pyrotech nic devices for civilian use ..................................................42
(v) Nuclear fuel, de bris and waste.............................................................................................. ....44
I. AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS1
Sanitary and phytosanitary aspects of the products dealt with in Chapter I are described in
greater detail in Chapter II(i) and II(ii).  The licensi ng system with respect to the compulsory holding of
reserve stocks of foodstuffs and industr ial products is described in Chapter III.
Under the tariffication introduced with the implementation of the Results of the
Uruguay Round, Switzerland no longer applies quantitativ e restrictions.  The series of questions under
point 6 was used to reflect as accurately as possi ble the non-automatic licensing systems applied with
respect to the agricultural tariff quotas resulting from the Uruguay Round.
HORIZONTAL REPLIES
Where there are no remarks concerning the outlines of the licensing systems by group of
products below in this section, the following provisions apply:
Outline of systems
1. The licensing systems for agricultural products are essentially governed by the new Federal
Law on Agriculture of 29 April 1998, which entered into force on 1 January 1999 (Systematic
Compendium - RS 910.12), the Federal Law on Alcohol of 21 June 1932 (RS 680) and the General
Ordinance on imports of agricultural products of 7 December 1998 (RS 916.01).  They provide the legal
basis for the statistical control of imports, the coll ection of portions of the customs duties that are not
collected by the Federal Customs Administration (i.e . that are levied by bodies outside the customs
system) and for the individual allocation of tariff quot a (TQ) shares and the control of their utilisation.
To this end, the two following instruments are applied:
(a) Automatic licensing (general import licence - PG I): All imports of the groups of products listed
under headings I(i) to I(x) are subject to the PG I system.  This licence, granted automatically, is
used for statistical purposes and serves in certain cases to ensure collection of those portions of
the customs duty that are not levied by the Federal Customs Administration.  The licensing
system to cover the expenses of compulsory stocks is described in Chapter III.  Persons liable tocustoms controls must show their PG I number on their customs declaration.
                                                     
1 General information for agricultural products available under http://www.blw.admin.ch/e/index.htm .
2 Available under  http://www.admin.ch/ch/f/rs/rs.html  (in French, German and Italian only).G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 3
(b) Non-automatic licensing governed by conditions set forth in the PGI, for the allocation of tariff
quota (TQ) shares: This licence is part of an administrative procedure whereby importers who
meet the relevant legal requirements are author ised to carry out imports within the TQ.  If
import at the TQ rate is authorised provided  that the importer purchases a fixed proportion of
domestic products, an importer meeting this requirement may import at the TQ rate even if the
TQ has been exhausted.  Quota shares may be transferred among holders of such non-automatic
licences.  They are usually allocated for a limited period.  The importer is not required to
produce this authorisation at the border, as  the competent authority carries out an ex post
control.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. In principle, the agricultural products describe d under headings I(i) to I(x) are subject to an
automatic import licence (PGI).  Imports within the TQs - assuming that a TQ exists and is applied -
require a non-automatic licence (for tariff item numbers within the TQs, see Sw iss notification to the
Committee on Agriculture  G/AG/N/CH E/13/Add.3).
3. The regulations apply to imports of all goods, whatever their origin.4. Automatic licences provide for the statistical control of imports and, in certain cases, the
collection of portions of customs duties that are not  levied by the Federal Customs.  Non-automatic
licences provide for the individual allocation of TQ  shares and the control of their utilisation.
5. Legal bases: Federal Law on Agriculture  (RS 910.1, Article 24, Federal Law on Alcohol
(RS 680, Article 24 ter) and General Ordinance on imports of agricultural products (RS 916.01,
Article 1).  For specific procedures, see Chapters I(i) to I(x). As a rule, the government has thecompetence to abolish or amend ordinances concerni ng import systems without legislative approval.  In
some cases, it must submit the provisions to Parliament for ex post  approval.  The changes are published
in the Official Compendium of Federal Law (RO)  and the Systematic Compendium of Federal Law
(RS).
Procedures
6. Non-automatic licence:  This does not apply to TQs which, for other reasons, are not currently
applied.
I. The administration of TQs for the calendar year  2002 is described in the Swiss notification to
the Committee on Agriculture G/AG/N/CHE/ 13/Add.3.  All information concerning TQ
utilisation (quantities, application procedures fo r licences, exceptions, exemptions etc.) is set
forth in the specific ordinances published in the RO  and RS (see Chapters I(i) to I(iv), I(vi) and
I(viii) to I(x)).  The customs tariffs indica te, in the specific remarks under each tariff item
number, whether or not a licence is required.  If so, the name of the authority through which the
importer may obtain further details is also provided.
II. TQs are determined for one year.  TQ shares  (non-automatic licence) may be allocated for
shorter periods.  The validity of the non-automatic licence is generally limited (see description
by group of products below).
III. Producers of agricultural products and their marketing entities are also allowed to apply for
tariff quotas.  The unused remainder of the allo cations is not added to quotas for a succeeding
period. In February/March of each year, the annex to the Report to Parliament on Tariff
Measures provides the names of importers for the preceding year including data on quantitiesG/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 4
allocated and the quantities effectively imported by individual importing companies.  The list of
names is published in the Official Journal (Feuille Fédérale).  This Report may be ordered from
the Central Federal Office of Publications and Printed Materials (Office central fédéral des
imprimés et du matériel).
IV. There is no deadline for the submission of a pplications from the time of opening of the quota.
V. As a rule, applicants receive a response with in one to three days according to the product.
VI. When an import licence is granted, the date of opening of the period of importation may be the
same as the date for the utilisation of the licence.  In other cases, the goods may be imported as
soon as the individual quota has been allocated.
VII. As a rule, applications are examined by a single administrative organ.VIII. For the distribution of TQs by  product group, see below (Chapters I(i) to I(iv), I(vi) and I(v iii) to
I(x)).  In principle, each TQ allocation met hod enables new importers to participate in the
market. For a number of products, a reserve supply is set aside specifically to that effect.  Such
reserves are above the total quantity of the tariff quota.
IX. The same rules apply to all imports within the TQs, regardless of the regulations of the
exporting country.
X. Export licences from the exporting countries are not required.XI. No.
7. Automatic licence:  (a) In view of the time requi red to obtain a licence, the application must be
submitted three to five days in advance of the importation itself.  For certain products, it may be granted
upon request by telephone.  For the import of certain  goods, however, the approval of the Cantonal
Veterinary Office (see Chapter II(i)) or of the Plant Protection Service (see Chapter II(ii)) is required,
and the time-period is therefore longer.
(b) Generally, yes.(c) No.(d) In most cases, applications are considered by  a single authority.  However, applications
concerning goods that are subject to veterinary c ontrol (see Chapter II(i)) or to phytosanitary control
(see Chapter II(ii)) must be examined by a second authority.  The importer generally approaches only
one authority.
8. There are no reasons to refuse an application for a licence other than failure to meet the specific
criteria.  The reasons for any refusal are communicated  to the applicant, who has a right to appeal the
decision to the administrative authority or to the Appeals Commission and, at second instance, to the
Federal Supreme Court.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9.(a) Non-automatic licensing:  TQ shares are only allocated to individuals, businesses and
organisations, irrespective of nationality or origin, that:  (a) Are established on Swiss customs territory;
(b) import goods in the sector concerned for business purposes;  (c) provide guarantees that, where
necessary, they can meet the requirements and undertake the commitments related to utilisation ofG/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 5
TQ shares.  Producers of agricultural products and their marketing entities are also eligible for TQ if
they meet the commitments for the allocation of TQ (e.g. purchase of like products directly from other
producers in Switzerland).  In February/March of each  year, the annex to the Report on Tariff Measures
provides the names of all the importers for the preced ing year including data on quantities allocated and
the quantities imported by individual importing companies (see point 6.III).
(b) Automatic licensing (PGI):  As a rule, any natural or legal person domiciled in Switzerland is
eligible, irrespective of nationality or origin, to r eceive a licence.  In some cases, the applicant must
engage regularly, and for business purposes, in trade in the product in question.  There is no published
list of authorised importers (except those who import within the TQs - see point 6.III).
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. Only the usual information is required.  Samples of the various application forms are available
on the website homepage mentioned in footnote 2 and 3.
11. In addition to the number of the automatic licence and the documents usually required by the
customs services, certain certificates, such as cert ificates of origin or sanitary or phytosanitary
certificates (see Chapter II), are required according to the product.
12. Automatic licensing:  No fees; PGI:  Import emoluments specific to certain lots of agricultural
products imported via a PGI are listed in annex 7 of the Ordinance of 7 December 1998 concerningimports of agricultural products (RS 916.01).
- by electronic way custom model 90 CHF 5
- traditional with one unique document CHF 12
by imported lot (lot of customised merchandise).  These amounts correspond to the actual cost of the
administrative services involved.
13. As a rule, no.Conditions of licensing
14.(a) Automatic licensing:  The validity is not limited as long as the conditions on which the licence
was granted are met;   (b) Non-automatic licensing:  The validity of the licence varies from two weeks to
one year according to the product.   The licence is generally renewable, sometime several times.
15. No.16. Automatic licensing (a) and non-automatic licen sing (b):  The licences are not transferable
between eligible persons.  TQ shares are however transferable to eligible persons.
17.(a) In a certain number of cases, the issue of non-automatic licences is subject to the purchase of
like products from Switzerland or to auctioning.
(b) In a certain number of cases, the issuing of auto matic licences is subject to the payment of the
portions of the customs duty th at are not collected by the Federal Customs Administration.
Other procedural requirements
18. No.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 6
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports is automatically provided by the banks.  There
are no restrictions on foreign exchange.
(i) Horses (A), livestock and breeding animals, bovine semen (B)
Outline of systems
1. See horizontal replies.  The specific legal basis for (A) is the Ordinance of 7 December 1998
regulating the import of horses (Ordinance on Hors es, OIC; RS 916.322.1), and for (B) the Ordinance of
7 December 1998 concerning animal breeding (RS 916.310).  The automatic and the non-automatic
licensing system are administered by the Federal Office for Agriculture (OFAG).
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Horses (Tariff headings: 0101.90), livestock and breeding animals as well as bovine semen are
subject to automatic licensing, and to non-aut omatic licensing for imports within the TQs.
3. See horizontal replies.4. Automatic licensing provides for the statistic al control of imports, it does not restrict the
quantity or value of imports.  The non-automatic licen sing provides for the individual allocation of TQ
shares and the control of their utilisation, it does restrict the quantity.
5. See horizontal replies and point 1.
Procedures
6.I. See horizontal replies.  (A) Auction dates are published in the specialised press and the Swiss
Official Trade Gazette (FOSC).
II. (A) and (B):  The TQs are determined for one  year (1 January-31 December).  Validity of
non-automatic licences:  (A) 50% of the TQ is put  for auction each September – the licences are
valid for the next calendar year (1 January-31 D ecember);  the remaining 50% of the TQ is put
for auction each April – the licences are valid till the end of the same year (31 December). (B)
The TQ is distributed in chronological order of submission of applications.  The non-automatic
licences are valid as soon as they have been  issued till the end of the calendar year (31
December).
III-V. See horizontal replies.
VI. See point II.
VII. In order to import animals and semen, the importer must obtain one licence from the OFAG
and one licence from the OVF (two distinct forms - for health aspects see Chapter II(i)).
VIII.  (A) Auctioning of the TQ.  The maximum amount per applicant is 10% of the TQ.
(B) Distribution of the TQ in chronological order of submission of applications.  The
maximum amount per applicant is 5% of the TQ.
IX-XI. See horizontal replies.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 7
7.(a-c) See horizontal replies.
(d) See point 6.VII.
8. See horizontal replies.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9.(a) See horizontal replies.  Semen:  cattle breeding and insemination organisations recognised
under Swiss law, breeders and groups of breeders domiciled on Swiss customs territory and
participating in a Swiss breeding programme.
(b) See horizontal replies.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10-13. See horizontal replies.Conditions of licensing
14. Automatic licensing: see horizontal replie s; non-automatic licensing:  see point 6.II.
15-16. See horizontal replies.
17.(a) (A) Applicants have to take  part in the auction.  (B) No.
(b) No.Other procedural requirements
18-19.  See horizontal replies.
(ii) Animals for slaughter, meat, prepared meat products and eggs
Outline of systems
1. See horizontal replies.
(A) Animals for slaughter, meat of bovine, equi ne, ovine, caprine and porcine animals as well as
poultry
The specific legal base is the Ordinance of 7 December 1998 concerning the slaughter cattle and
meat market (Ordinance on Cattle for Slaughter, OBB; RS 916.341).  The licensing system is
administered by the OFAG.
(B) Prepared meat products
The specific legal basis is the Ordinance of 7 December 1998 concerning the slaughter cattle
and meat market (Ordinance on Cattle for Slaughter, OBB; RS 916.341).  The licensing system is
administered by the OFAG.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 8
(C) Eggs and egg products
The specific legal basis is the Ordinance of 7 December 1998 concerning the egg market
(Ordinance on Eggs, OO; RS 916.371).  The licensi ng system is administered by the OFAG.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Tariff headings (A):  0201-0207, 0209; (B):   0210, 1601-1602; (C):  0407-0408, 3502.  All of
the products from (A) to (C) are subject to automatic licensing, and to non-automatic licensing as
regards imports within the TQ.
3. See horizontal replies.4. See horizontal replies.5. See horizontal replies and point 1.
Procedures
6.I. See horizontal replies.  Auction dates are published in the specialised press and the Swiss
Official Trade Gazette (FOSC).
II. See horizontal replies.  (A), (B) and (C):  the maximum duration of non-automatic licences is
one year.
III-V. See horizontal replies.
VI. Animals for slaughter, meat of bovine, equine , ovine, caprine and porcine animals, poultry, eggs
and egg products:  one day.  Pr epared meat products: one month.
VII. (A), (B) and (C):  The OFAG is responsible for issuing licences.  For health aspects see
Chapter II.
VIII. See horizontal replies.
(A) TQ-distribution according to slaughter and to purchases within the country.
(B) TQ-distribution by auction.
(C) The allocation of TQ shares takes place as need ed.  Licences are issued in chronological order
of actual imports, upon customs clearance, as long as the TQ is not exhausted.  In other words,
the TQ is allocated in the order in which the cu stoms declarations are received.  The volume of
imports under the TQ is recorded by the customs authorities.  On the basis of this data, the
OFAG determines when the TQ is exhausted and provides information to that effect.  There is
no maximum amount per importer.
IX-XI. See horizontal replies.
7.(a) One week. Emergency procedur e by telephone or fax possible.
(b-c) See horizontal replies.(d) See point 6.VII.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 9
8. See horizontal replies.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. See horizontal replies.Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10-12. See horizontal replies.13. See horizontal replies.
Conditions of licensing
14. Automatic licensing: see horizontal replies;   non-automatic licensing:  see point 6.II.
15-16. See horizontal replies.17.(a) (A) Purchase of like products from Switzerland.  (B ) Applicants have to take part in the auction.
(b) No.
Other procedural requirements
18-19.  See horizontal replies.
(iii) Milk, dairy products
Outline of systems
1. See horizontal replies.
The specific legal basis is the Ordinance  of 7.Decembre 1998 on the importation of milk and
dairy produce as well as edible oils and fats  (OILHG; RS 916.355.1).  The licensing system is
administered by the OFAG.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Tariff headings:  0401.10, 0401.20, 0402.21, 0402.29, 0403.10, 0403.90, 0404.90, 0405.20,
0405.10, 0405.90, ex 0406.90, 0401.30, 0402.10, 0402.21, 0402.29, 0402.91, 0402.99, 0403.10,
0403.90, 0404.10, 0404.90, 0406.10, 0406.20, 0406.30, 0406.40, 0406.90.
The products are subject to automatic licensing, and to non-automatic licensing as regards
imports of certain dairy products (whole milk powder,  butter, Fontal cheese, natural yoghurt, dairy
spreads with a basis of milk fat) within the TQs.
3. See horizontal replies.
4. Automatic licensing provides for the sta tistical control of imports for all products.
Non-automatic licensing provides for the individual a llocation of TQ shares and the control of their
utilisation.
5. See horizontal replies and point 1.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 10
Procedures
6.I. See horizontal replies.
II. See horizontal replies.  Quotas and non-automatic  licences are established for one calendar year.
Exception: non-automatic licences for whole milk  powder are valid for 18 months from the date
of performance of the action in favour of Swiss production (current account; purchase with
scale).
III-V. See horizontal replies.
VI. At least three to five days.
VII. The OFAG is the only organ to approach.VIII. (A)See horiz ontal replies.  The distribution of partial TQs takes place as follows:
- Whole milk powder:  according to purchases within the country.- Butter:  The OFAG decides how much butte r can be imported within the tariff quota.
- Fontal cheese:  In 2000 40 per cent according to imports in the previous year. The
remaining quantities were allocated by auction (total quantity limited to 2,624 tons).
Since 1 January 2001, total quantity by auction.
- Selected dairy products (natural yoghurt, spr eads with a basis of milk fat):  as needed
quantity (limited to 25% per year and per importer; total quantity: 200 tons per year).
IX-X. See horizontal replies.
7.(a) One week. Emergency procedur e by telephone or fax possible.
(b-c) See horizontal replies.
(d) See point 6.VII.8. See horizontal replies.Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. See horizontal replies.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10-13. See horizontal replies.
Conditions of licensing
14. See horizontal replies.  Non-automatic li cences, valid for one year, are not extendable.
15-16. See horizontal replies.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 11
17.(a) Purchase of like products from Switzerland (only partially for (A)).
(b) No.
Other procedural requirements
18-19.  See horizontal replies.
(iv) Fresh fruit and vegetables (A), fruit for cider and fruit products (B), cut flowers (C), frozen
vegetables (D), potatoes (including seed potatoes) and potato products (E), fruit seedlings (F)
Outline of systems
1. See horizontal replies.
(A), (B), (C), (D) and (F):  The specific legal basis is the Ordinance of 7 December 1998 on
the import of vegetables, fresh fruit and horticultural plants (RS 916.121.10).  The licensingsystem is administered by the OFAG.
(E) The specific legal basis is the Ordinance of 7 December 1998 concerning the
utilisation as well as the import and export (RS 916.113.11).  The licensing system is
administered by the OFAG (as of 1 February 1997).
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. The following products:
(A) Fresh vegetables (0702.00, ex0703.10, ex0703.90, 0704.10, 0704.20, ex0704.90,
0705.11, 0705.19, 0705.21, ex0705.29, 0706.10, ex0706.90, ex0707.00, 0708.10,ex0708.20, ex0708.90, 0709.10, ex 0709.20, 0709.30, 0709.40, ex0709.70,
ex0709.90) and fresh fruit (ex0808.10, ex0808.20, ex0809.10, ex0809.20, ex0809.40,
ex0810.10, ex0810.20, ex0810.30) are subject to:  (a) automatic licensing and (b) non-
automatic licensing as regards imports with in the TQs over a period ranging from 6 to
50 weeks according to the product;
(B) Fruit for cider (ex0808.10, ex0808.20) and seed fruit pr oducts (ex130 2.20, 2009.70,
ex2009.80, ex2009.90, ex2202.90, ex2206.00) are subject to:  (a) automatic licensing
and (b) non-automatic licensing as regards imports within the TQs;
(C) Cut flowers (ex0603.10) are subject to:  (a) automatic licensing and (b) non-automatic
licensing as regards imports within the TQ  during the period from 1 May to 25 October;
(D) Frozen vegetables (0710.21, ex0710.22, ex0710.30, ex0710.80, ex0710.90) are subject
to:  (a) automatic licensing and (b) non-auto matic licensing as regards imports within
the TQs;
(E) Potatoes including seed potatoes are subj ect to:  (a) automatic licensing and (b)
non-automatic licensing as regards imports  within the TQs (Tariff headings: 0701.1010,
2004.1091, 0701.9010, 2004.9028, 0710.1010, 2004.9051, 0710.9021, 2005.2021,
0712.9021, 2005.2022, 1105.1011, 2005.2092, 1105.2011, 2005.2093, 2001.9031,
2005.9021, 2004.1011, 2005.9051);G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 12
(F) Seedlings of seed fruit and stone fruit (ex0602.20) are subject to: (a) automatic
licensing.
3. See horizontal replies.
4. Automatic licensing provides for the sta tistical control of imports for all products.
Non-automatic licensing provides for the individual a llocation of TQ shares and the control of their
utilisation.
5. See horizontal replies and point 1.Procedures
6.I. See horizontal replies.II.(A) See horizontal replies.  In principle, non-au tomatic licences are granted for the period indicated
in point 2.
(B) See horizontal replies.  Non-automatic licences for seed fruit products are issued for a maximum
period of six months.
(C) The size of the TQ is determined for th e period from 1 May to 25 October.  Non-automatic
licences are issued for that period.
(D) and (E):  See horizontal replies.   With the exception of table potatoes the non-automatic licences are
issued for one year.
III. See horizontal replies.
IV. See horizontal replies.(A) and (C):  With respect to non-automatic licen ces granted according to previous imports by the
applicant, the licensing office sends the new li cence to the importers at the beginning of each
year.  As regards other licensing systems, there is no time limit for the submission ofapplications.  They can be submitted throughout the year of opening of the TQ. Licences are
issued primarily according to the applicants' previous imports.
(B) For the issuing of non-automatic licences acco rding to need, there is no time limit for the
submission of applications.  They may be subm itted throughout the year of opening of the TQ.
The deadline for applications in the case of auctions is generally set at 30 working days
following publication.
(D) The licensing office sends the new licences to the importers at the beginning of each year.
(E) With respect to non-automatic licences grante d according to previous purchases of Swiss
products, the licensing office sends the new licen ce to the importers at the beginning of each
year.  For the other systems, there is no time limit for application, which may take place
throughout the year of opening of the TQ.
V. See horizontal replies.  (B):  The time-period fo r the examination of applications in connection
with auctions is about five working days  after the call for bids has been closed.
VI-VII. See horizontal replies.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 13
VIII.(A)For the va st majority of products, licences are issued according to previous imports by the
applicant.  New importers are given a minimum volume.  For certain products, allocations are
made in response to the market shares or pro rata  to applications or in response to a contribution
to domestic production.
(B) Licences are mainly issued by auction.  They may also be issued according to need (pectin) or
on the basis of a contribution to Swiss producti on (concentrates of seed fruit juice).  New
importers may obtain a licence at each new allocation.
(C) Licences are generally issued according to two cr iteria:  previous imports by the applicant and
purchase of local goods by the applicant.  New importers are given a minimum volume.
(D) Licences are issued on the basis of a combina tion of two criteria: previous imports by the
applicant, and purchase of local goods by the applicant.
(E) Licences for fresh potatoes are issued in accordance with a contribution to local production.
Licences for potato products are allocated by auction.
IX-XI. See horizontal replies.7.(a) See horizontal replies.  No time limit.  Em ergency procedure by telephone or fax possible.
(b-c) See horizontal replies.(d) See point 6.VII.
8. See horizontal replies.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. See horizontal replies.Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10-13. See horizontal replies.Conditions of licensing
14.  - Automatic licensing:  See horizontal replies.- Non-automatic licensing:  See point 6.II.(A) The validity of the licence ranges from one month to 50 weeks according to the system of
allocation in force (see point 2), and is not extendable.
(B) The validity of the licence ranges from three to six months according to the system of allocation
in force.
(C) The validity of the licence extends from 1 May to 25 October.
(D) The licence is valid for one year.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 14
(E) The validity of the licence ranges from two m onths to one year according to the system of
allocation in force.
15-16. See horizontal replies.
17.(a) Subject in certain cases to the purchase of like products from Switzerland.
(b) No.Other procedural requirements
18-19.  See horizontal replies.
(v) Feed grain
Outline of systems
1. See horizontal replies.  The specific legal bases are the Ordinance of 7 December 1998 on
imports of seed-grain and feeding stuffs  (RS 916.112.211) and the Ordinance of 25 April 2001
compulsory stock-keeping of cereals, special cereals as well as sources of energy and protein for use in
animal feeds (Ordinance on compulsory Cereal  stocks; RS 531.215.17).  The licensing system is
administered by the OFAG and the Fiduciary Offi ce of Swiss Holders of Co mpulsory Cereal Stocks
(OSSOC - see also under Chapter III).
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Tariff headings are listed in the annexe of the ordinance on imports of seed-grain and feeding
stuffs (RS 916.112.211).  The import of products governed by market regulations concerning feed grain
and oilseeds for feeding is subject to automatic licensing.
3. See horizontal replies.4. Automatic licensing provides for the statistic al control of imports and maintenance of the
system of reserve stocks (see Chapter III).
5. See horizontal replies and point 1.
Procedures
6. Not applicable.7.(a) See horizontal replies.  No time limit.  Em ergency procedure by telephone or fax possible.
(b-c) See horizontal replies.
(d) Automatic licences for goods subject to guarantee fund contributions are checked by the
OSSOC.  Automatic licences for other type s of fodder are supervised by the OFAG.
8. See horizontal replies.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9.(a) Not applicable.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 15
(b) See horizontal replies.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10-11. See horizontal replies.12. Automatic licence no fees.  Other charges:  see horizontal replies.
13. See horizontal replies.Conditions of licensing
14. See horizontal replies.15. No.
16. See horizontal replies.
17.(a) No.(b) Participation in the cost of establishing compulsory reserve stocks and, where applicable,
conclusion of a contract providing for the establishment of a compulsory reserve stock (see
Chapter III).
Other procedural requirements
18-19.  See horizontal replies.
(vi) Grain for human consumption: Durum wheat (A ), common wheat (B), coarse grain for human
consumption, such as barley, oats and maize (C)
Outline of systems
1. See horizontal replies.  The specific legal base is the Ordinance of 7 December 1998 on imports
of seed-grain and feeding stuffs (RS 916.112.211).  The licensing system is administered by the OSSOC
(see Chapter III) for goods subject to  contributions to the guarantee fund or to the supplementary reserve
stocks. The OFAG grants licences for other products.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Importation is subject to automatic licensing as regards imports within the TQ, except common
wheat (B) which is subject to an applied TQ.  TQs for durum wheat (A) and coarse grain for human
consumption, such as barley, oats and maize (C) are not currently administered, i.e. importation at the
TQ rate is not limited.  As regards common wheat (B), the TQ is allocated by auction.
Tariff headings:
(A): 1001.1031
(B): 1001.9031, 1008.2021, 1002.0031, 1008.9021, 1007.0021, 1008.9051, 1008.1021
(C): 1003.0061, 1005.9021, 1004.0031
3. See horizontal replies.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 16
4. Automatic licensing provides for the statistical  control of imports and the maintenance of the
reserve stocks system (see Chapter III).
5. See horizontal replies and point 1.Procedures
6. Valid for durum wheat (A) and coarse grain (C).I. See horizontal replies.
II. See horizontal replies.
III. See horizontal replies.  (A) On average, the durum wheat imported at quota rates should in the
course of a calendar quarter, serve to manufactur e at least 64% of milled products.  These latter
should be used as cooking meal for human cons umption or as fine semolina for the manufacture
of pasta products.  In the course of a calendar quarter an average of at least 96% of the fine
semolina should be used for the manufacture of pasta products.  (C) The right to import is
restricted to millers who have the necessa ry manufacturing facilities (special mill).
The controlling body is the Di rectorate-General of Customs.
IV. Before the planned date of importation.V. The prior notice must be submitted the day preceding importation.
VI. There is no minimum time limit.
VII. Applications are considered by the OSSOC for goods subject to contribution to the guarantee
fund and by the OFAG for other products.
VIII. See horizontal replies.
IX-XI. See horizontal replies.
7.(a) See horizontal replies.  The automatic licence must be obtained before importation.  Emergency
procedure by telephone or fax possible.
(b-c) See horizontal replies.
(d) See 6.VII.8. See horizontal replies.Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. See horizontal replies.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10-11. See horizontal replies.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 17
12. Automatic licence without fees. Othe r expenses: see horizontal replies.
13. See horizontal replies.Conditions of licensing
14. Automatic licensing is for an unlimited duration.15. No.16. See horizontal replies.
17.(a) No.
(b) Participation in the cost of establishing th e compulsory reserve stock and, where appropriate,
conclusion of a contract providing for the establishm ent of a compulsory reserve stock (see Chapter III).
Other procedural requirements
18-19.  See horizontal replies.
(vii) Sugar (A), edible oils and fats (B)
Outline of systems
1. See horizontal replies.  The licensing system is  administered by the Fiduciary Office of Swiss
Foodstuff Importers (OFIDA), acting on instructi ons from the OFAG (and the Federal Office for
National Economic Supply - see Chapter III).
(A) The specific legal base is the Ordinance of 7 December 1998 (RS 531.215.11) on compulsory
stock keeping of sugar.
(B) The specific legal basis is the Ordinance of 7 December 1998 on the importation of milk and
dairy produce and of edible fats and oils  as well as casein and caseinates (RS 916.355.1).
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. The import of products governed by the market regulations concerning sugar and edible oils and
fats are subject to automatic licensing.
(A) Tariff heading: 1701.1100, 1701.1200, 1701.9999, 1702.3032, 1702.3042, 1702.4019,
1702.4029, 1702.9019, 1702.9029, 1702.9032, and 1702.9039).
(B) Tariff heading (Edible oils and fats in chapter 15):  1501.0018, 1501.0019, 1501.0028,
1501.0029, 1502.0091, 1502.0099, 1503.0091, 1503.0099, 1504.1098, 1504.1099, 1504.2091,1504.2099, 1504.3091, 1504.3099, 1506.0091, 1506.0099, 1516.1091, 1507.1090, 1507.9018,
1507.9019, 1507.9098, 1507.9099, 1508.1090, 1508.9018, 1508.9019, 1508.9098, 1508.9099,
1509.1091, 1509.1099, 1509.9091, 1509.9099, 1510.0091, 1510.0099, 1511.1090, 1511.9018,
1511.9019, 1511.9098, 1511.9099, 1512.1190, 1512.1918, 1512.1919, 1512.1998, 1512.1999,
1512.2190, 1512.2991, 1512.2999, 1513.1190, 1513.1918, 1513.1919, 1513.1998, 1513.1999,1513.2190, 1513.2918, 1513.2919, 1513.2998, 1513.2999, 1514.1190, 1514.9190, 1514.1991,
1514.9991, 1514.1999, 1514.9999, 1515.1190, 1515.1991, 1515.1999, 1515.2190, 1515.2991,
1515.2999, 1515.3091, 1515.3099, 1515.4091, 1515.4099, 1515.5019, 1515.5091, 1515.5099,G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 18
1515.9013, 1515.9018, 1515.9019, 1515.9028, 1515.9029, 1515.9098, 1515.9099, 1516.2091,
1516.2099, 1517.1061, 1517.1069, 1517.1071, 1517.1079, 1517.1081, 1517.1089, 1517.1091,
1517.1099, 1517.9061, 1517.9069, 1517.9071, 1517.9079, 1517.9081,   1517.9089,   1517.9091,
1517.9099
3. See horizontal supplies.
4. Automatic licensing provides for the statistical  control of imports and the maintenance of the
system of reserve stocks (see Chapter III).
5. See horizontal replies and point 1.
Procedures
6. Not applicable.
7.(a-c) See horizontal replies.(d) Only the OFIDA has the authority to issue licences.8. See horizontal replies.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. See horizontal replies.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10-13. See horizontal replies.Conditions of licensing
14-16. See horizontal replies.
17.(a) Not applicable.
(b) Participation in the costs of establishing th e compulsory reserve stock and, where appropriate,
conclusion of a contract providing for the establishm ent of a compulsory reserve stock (see Chapter III).
Other procedural requirements
18-19.  See horizontal replies.
(viii) Grapes for pressing and grape juice
Outline of systems
1. See horizontal replies.  The specific legal base is the General Ordinance of 7 December 1998 on
imports of agricultural products (RS 916.01).  The auto matic licensing system is administered by the
OFAG.  Since the TQ is not administered, ther e are no non-automatic licences for these products.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 19
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Grapes for pressing (tariff head ing: 0806.1021) and grape juice (2009.6018, 6021, 6031;
2202.9018, 9041) are subject to automatic licensing only.
3-4. See horizontal replies.
5. See horizontal replies and point 1.Procedures
6. Not applicable.7-8. See horizontal replies.Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. See horizontal replies. In order to be eligible  to market the products in question, the importer
has to be listed in the commercial register and has to report the beginning of his commercial activities to
the authority.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10-13. See horizontal replies.Conditions of licensing
14-16. See horizontal replies.17.(a) Not applicable.(b) No.Other procedural requirements
18-19.  See horizontal replies.
(ix) Wine
Outline of systems
1. See horizontal replies.  Specific legal bases: S ee chapter I(viii), point 1.  The licensing system is
administered by the OFAG.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Wine (tariff headings: 2204.2121, 2204.2131, 2204.2141, 2204.2921, 2204.2922, 2204.2931,
2204.2932) is subject to automatic licensing and non-automatic licensing as regards imports within the
TQ.
3. See horizontal replies.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 20
4. Automatic licensing provides for statistical  control of imports.  Non-automatic licensing
provides for the individual allocation of TQ shares and the control of the utilisation.
5. See horizontal replies and point 1.
Procedures
6.I. See horizontal replies.
II. See horizontal replies.
III. See horizontal replies.  Producers of agricult ural commodities and their organisations are not
excluded from access to TQs.
IV-VI. See horizontal replies.VII. OFAG has the authority to decide whether or not imports are to be counted against the TQ,
including retroactively (see TQ dist ribution method under the next point).
VIII. See horizontal replies.  The allocation of TQ shares takes place as needed.  Licences are issued
in chronological order of actu al imports, upon customs clearance, as long as the TQ is not
exhausted.  In other words, the TQ is allocated  in the order in which the customs declarations
are received.  The volume of imports under the TQ is recorded by the customs authorities.  Onthe basis of this data, the OFAG determines when  the TQ is exhausted and provides information
to that effect.  There is no maximum amount per importer.
IX-XI. See horizontal replies.
7.(a-c) See horizontal replies.
(d) See point 6.VII.8. See horizontal replies.Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. See horizontal replies and Chapter I(viii), point 9.Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10-13. See horizontal replies.Conditions of licensing
14-16. See horizontal replies.17.(a) No.(b) No.
Other procedural requirements
18-19.  See horizontal replies.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 21
II. SANITARY AND PHYTOSANITARY MEASURES
(i) Import, transit and export of animals and animal products
Outline of systems
1. The Federal Veterinary Office (OFV) is responsible for issuing:
(a) The authorisations laid down by veterinary law for the importation of animals and
goods, (Ordinance 20 April 1988 on the import,  transit and export of animals and
animal products (OITE3;  RS 916.443.11;  Articles 25, 36, 49, 51, 54 and 57).  These
authorisations are police authorisations issued in accordance with the Law on
Epizootics of 1 July 1966 (LFE:  RS 916.40), the Law on Foodstuffs of 9 October 1992(817.0), the Federal Law on Fishing  of 21 June 1991 (RS 923.0) and the Law on the
Protection of Animals (RS 455) of 9 March 1978.
(b) The authorisations laid down in the laws on the protection of species with respect to the
import of animals and goods, (Ordinance of 19 August 1981 on the conservation of
species (OCE - RS 453, Article 5) and re quired under the Convention on International
Trade on Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora of 3 March 1973 (CITES;
RS 0.453),  the Law on the Protection of Animals of 9 March 1978 (RS 455) and the
Law of 20 June 1986 on Hunting (RS 922.0).
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. (a) List of OITE products:  see OITE, Article 14.
(b) List of products coming under the conser vation of species:  see OCE, Article 5.
Main tariff chapters/headings concerned:  0101, 0102, 0103, 0104, 010511, 0106, 0201, 0202,
0203, 0204, 0205, 0206, 0207, 020810, 020890, 0209, 0210, 0301, 0302, 0303, 0304, 0305, 0306,
0307, 0407, 051016, 051110, 051191, 051199, 0502, 0503, 0504, 0505, 0506, 0507, 0508, 1602,
1604, 1605, 2104, 2301, 2309.
3. No restrictions.4. No restrictions. For purpose, see point 1.5. See point 1.  A partial modification of the re gime would be possible,  but would require the
approval of Parliament on cer tain points (Law on Hunting).
Procedures
6. Not applicable (no quantitative restrictions).
7.(a) It is recommended that applications shoul d be submitted at least one week in advance of
importation.  Authorisations concerning the speci es listed in Annex I of the CITES require a
slightly longer time limit owing to the pro cedure stipulated by the international treaty
                                                     
3 Available under  http://www.admin.ch/ch/f/rs/rs.html  (in French, German and Italian only).
4 http://www.bvet.admin.ch/0_navigation-e/0_index-intern.html .G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 22
(consultation of scientific authorities).  However, many applications are processed the day on
which they are submitted.
(b) Sometimes.  In some cases an approval/opi nion/authorisation is required from other services
(Cantonal Veterinary Office, OFAG, Federal Office of the Environment, Forests and Landscape(OFEFP), Technical Commission fo r the Conservation of Species).
(c) No.(d) See point 7(b).  The procedure is generally regula ted so that the applican t needs to approach two
services (Federal Veterinary Office and Federal Office for Agriculture).
8. See horizontal replies.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence provided they are
established on the Swiss customs territory.  Specime ns of the species appearing in Annex 1 of the
CITES may only be imported for professional purposes, thereby automatically limiting the number of
applicants.   Holders of licences that are valid for one  or two years are included in "lists of professional
importers".
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. Please refer to website mentioned in footnote 5.
11. Import licence, veterinary certifica te, CITES documents as appropriate.
12. Yes.  CHF 15.13. See horizontal replies.Conditions of licensing
14. In general, three months. Possible extensions of twice two months (the licence must be sent
with a brief extension request).  For certain cate gories of animals or goods, so-called "general"
authorisations are  issued.   They are valid fo r one or two years for an indeterminate number of
shipments and an undefined quantity.
15-16. See horizontal replies.
17. No.Other procedural requirements
18. Sometimes.  Subject to cantonal authorisations required by veterinary law and the laws on
foodstuffs.
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 23
(ii) Plants and plant products
Outline of systems
1. The OFAG is responsible for issuing the authorisations required under phytosanitary law for the
import of goods, which could present a risk  of transmitting plant pests and diseases.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Phytosanitary measures applying to the impor tation of plants, plant products and other items
form three distinct regimes:  Prohibition of imports , and phytosanitary certificate.  Dispensation may be
granted in the case of goods the import of which is prohibited until the prorogation pests/vermin can be
ruled out.  Dispensation may be granted in the case of goods that are imported for research, selection,
multiplication or diagnostic purposes.
The products in question are essentially those listed under the following customs tariff chapters:- 6 (live trees and other plants; bulbs, roots and the like; cut flowers and
ornamental foliage);
- 7 (edible vegetables and certain roots and tubers);
- 10 (cereals);
- 12 (oil seeds and oleaginous fruits; miscellaneous grains, seeds and fruit;
industrial or medicinal plants; straw and fodder);
- 31 (fertilisers).
3. See item 2.4. No.  The purpose of the measures is to prevent the introduction of quarantine organisms
affecting plants.  The regimes governing plants, plant products and other items are frequently revised
according to the phytosanitary situation in Switzerland (actual situation to be found on website
mentioned in footnote 2 and 5).
5. Legal bases: Law on Agriculture of 29 Ap ril 1998 (RS 910.1), Ordinance of 28 February 2001
on Plant Protection (RS 916.20).  The items subject to  the different regimes are set forth in the
Ordinance on Plant Protection.  The OFAG may ta ke measures in cases where new quarantine
organisms appear, but it must promptly submit such m easures to the Federal Council for approval.  The
government has the authority under the law to decide on the items that are subject to the regimes
described in point 2 above.
Procedures
6. Not applicable (no restrictions).7.(a) Imports of goods under the phytosanitary certificate regime must be announced to the said
service 24 hours in advance.  Applications for disp ensation must be submitted 1 month prior to the date
foreseen for the import of said goods.
(b) Applications for import licences submitted after the deadline mentioned in 7(a) are processed as
quickly as possible, but without an y guarantee that the applicants will receive the licences by the
requested date.
(c) -G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 24
(d) All applications for import licences for the items  mentioned in point 2 are dealt with by the
Federal Phytosanitary Service.
8. Dispensation as defined under Point 2 will not be  granted if phytosanitary risks are too high.
Eligibility of importers to apply for a licence
9. All persons, firms or institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence provided they are
domiciled in Switzerland.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. See horizontal replies.  Applications for an import licence must mention the place of origin of
the goods, the type of goods, the quantity, the producer and the consignee.  There is no specific form.
11. The licence, and in certain cases, a phytosanitary certificate.
12. Varies depending on the time needed for the evaluation of the request.
13. NoConditions of licensing
14. The period of validity of an import licence is limited according to the type of goods imported.
Extensions are granted upon written request.
15-16. See horizontal replies.
17. No.
Other procedural requirements
18. The goods subject to the regime described above are controlled by the Phytosanitary Service
upon import.  The Phytosanitary Service is the OFAG 's control body in the field of plant protection.
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force.
(iii) Forest reproductive material
Outline of systems
1. The Federal Directorate of Forestry is responsible  for issuing the authorisations required by the
regulations governing the import and export of fore st reproductive material.  The purpose of these
measures remains above all to ensure the use of healthy and appropriate forest reproductive material at
the place of reforestation.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. The regulations cover certain varieties of trees th at are important for Swiss forestry (11 varieties
of conifers and 31 varieties of leaf-bearing trees ).  See also Annex 1 to the Ordinance on Forest
Reproductive Material (RS 921.552.1).G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 25
3. Countries in which the tree varieties in quest ion grow naturally and permanently (Europe, North
America and Japan).
4. No.  The purpose of the Ordinance is to ensu re the supply of appropriate forest reproductive
material, i.e. suited to the geographical and climatic conditions of Switzerland.
5. Federal Law on Forests of 4 October 1991 (LFo; RS 921.0);  Ordinance on Forests of
30 November 1992 (LOFo; RS 921.01) ;  Ordinance of 29 Novemb er 1994 on Forest Reproductive
Material (RS 921.552.1).   The tree varieties subject to the Ordinance are listed in Annex I thereto.
Procedures
6. Not applicable (no quantitative restrictions).7.(a) 14 days.(b) Only where justified.(c) See horizontal replies.(d) Applications for import licences are examined by the Federal Directorate of Forestry, which
also issues the licence.
8. See horizontal replies.Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. All persons, firms or institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence provided they are
domiciled in Switzerland.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. See horizontal replies.  The application for an  import licence must mention the variety of tree,
the origin, the quantity, the supplier and the buyer.  The importer must include in the application acertificate of origin for the varieties of trees.  There is no specific form.
11. Import licence and certificate of origin.12. A fee is charged for all import licence applications (to cover administrative expenses).13. See horizontal replies.Conditions of licensing
14. The imports licence is valid for six months, extendable for another six months on request.
15-17.  No.Other procedural requirements
18-19.  See horizontal replies.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 26
(iv) Protection of forest plants
Outline of systems
1. The Federal Directorate of Forestry is responsible  for issuing the authorisations required by the
regulations governing the phytosanitary protection of  forest plants.  The purpose of these measures
remains above all to ensure the use of healthy forest plants.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Regulations for the protection of forest plants  in connection with the trans-boundary traffic of
goods (see Annex 3 Part A and B of  the Ordinance on the Phytosanita ry Protection of Plants, which
contains the list of forest products whose import is prohibited).  The products in question are essentially
those listed under the following customs tariff ch apters (subject to non-automatic licensing):
- 6 (live trees and other plants; bulbs, roots and the like; cut flowers and
ornamental foliage);
- 14 (bark and bark products);- 25/31/38(soil and other substrates for cultivation);
- 44 (wood and wood products).
3. To all countries.
4. No.  The purpose of the conditions is to preven t the introduction of new pests that are dangerous
for forestry;  they consist in phytosanitary measures  that are in conformity with the FAO International
Convention and the recommendations of the EPPO.
5. Federal Law on Forests of 4 October 1991 (LFo ;  RS 921.0), Ordinance of 28 February 2001 on
the Phytosanitary Protect ion of Plants (RS 916.20).
Procedures
6. Not applicable (no restrictions).
7.(a) Import and export licences are issued subject to prior submission of an application (time-limit:
7 to 14 days).  The import of goods subject to phytosanitary conditions must be announced 24 hours in
advance of importation to the Federal Plan ts Protection Service or a customs office.
(b) Applications submitted with a very short time limit are processed as rapidly as possible.(c) Limitations may be possible, depending on the phytosanitary risk.(d) Applications are usually processed by an offi cial organisation.  In the case of tree-seedlings,
applications for import licences must be co-ordinated in  respect of rules of origin.  In the field of plants
or parts of plants, the agricultural and forestry sect ors co-ordinate their activitie s, i.e. applications are
examined by two officers.
8. None.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 27
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. All persons, firms or institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence provided that they
are domiciled in Switzerland.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. See horizontal replies.  An application for an import licence must mention the type of good, the
place of origin, the quantity, the producer, the impor ter, the forwarding agent and the border point.
11. The licence and/or phytosanitary certificate.
12. Administrative fee of CHF 5-CHF 20.  If the required documents are not produced (see
point 11), there is a CHF 20-CHF 50 phytosanitary control charge.
13. No.
Conditions of licensing
14. The validity of the import licence depends on the product imported and the time-span required
for importation (import in batches etc.), and is extendable on request.
15-17.  No.
Other procedural requirements
18. Products subjected to phytosanitary conditions undergo spot controls by the Federal
Phytosanitary Service.
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force.
(v) Transplants
Outline of systems
1. The Federal Office of Public Health (FOSP) is the body responsible for the implementation of
the Federal Decree of 22 March 1996 (updated on the 27 November 2001) on the control of transplants
(RS 818.111).  For the import, export and for handlin g transplants abroad acting from Switzerland an
authorisation from the FOSP is required.  The proc edures for obtaining such an authorisation are
described, inter alia , in the Ordinance of 26 June 1996 (update 28 December 2001) on the control of
transplants (Ordinance on Tran splant Control;  RS 818.111.3).
The Decree aims to guarantee safety in the handlin g of transplants, in particular with a view to
protect donors and recipients.
Purpose and coverage of licensing
2. An authorisation is required for the import of transplants (organs, tissue and cells of human or
animal origin to be transplanted to humans).
3. All countries.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 28
4. The import authorisation is granted (automatic licensing) when the products are in conformity
with the relevant laws.
5. See point 1.
Procedures
6. Not applicable (no quantitative restrictions).
7.(a) Import is not allowed without  authorisation.  The authorisa tion procedure takes about three
months.  On exceptional cases a shorter procedure can be envisaged.
(b) No.
(c) Not applicable.(d) The FOSP is the sole organ responsible for examining applications.8. Only if the applicant does not meet the criteria  an authorisation is refused.  The reasons will
then be stated in the pre authorisation inspec tion report.  There is a possibility to appeal.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. All persons, firms or institutions are eligible to  apply for an import authorisation provided that
they are domiciled in Switzerland.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licensing
10. Different documents and certificates may be reque sted, depending on the type of  transplant.  A
pre authorisation inspection is mandatory.
11. Once the authorisation is issued, none (for importation).
12. CHF 500 to 2,000 per authorisation.
13. No.Conditions of licensing
14. The period of validity of the authorisation is five years with the possibility of extension.
15. Yes.
16-17.  No.
Other procedural requirements
18. No.19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 29
(vi) Blood, blood products and immunological products for human use
Outline of systems
1. Swissmedic, Swiss Agency for Therapeutic  Products is the body responsible for the
implementation of the Federal Law on Medicinal Products and Medical Devices, dated 15 December2000 (RS 812.21)
5.  For the importation of blood and blood pr oducts and for imports of immunological
products for human use, an import licence is require d.  The procedure for obtaining such a licence is
described, inter alia , in the Ordinance of 17 October 2001 on authorisations regarding medicinal
products (RS 812.212.1).
The new Law has replaced the corresponding regu lations as laid down before in the Federal
Decree of 22 March 1996 on the cont rol of blood, blood products and tr ansplants and the Ordinance 23
August 1989 concerning immunobi ological products (RS 812.111).
Purpose and coverage of licensing
2. A licence is required each time blood, blood products or immunological products are
imported.  For the products subject to this procedure, see the relevant Law and Ordinance.
The products covered are:(a) blood and blood products;  and
(b) immunological products such as vaccines, toxins and sera.
3. The regulations apply to imports of all goods, whatever their origin (except Liechtenstein).4. The import licence granted when the products are in conformity with the relevant laws.5. See point 1.  As a rule, the government has the competence to abolish or amend ordinances
concerning import systems without legislative approval .  In some cases, it must submit the provisions to
Parliament approval.  The changes are published in the Official Compendium of Federal Law (RO) and
the Systematic Compendium of Federal Law (RS).
Procedures
6. Not applicable (no quantitative restrictions).7.(a) In view of the time required to obtain a licence, the application must be submitted a few days in
advance of the importation itself. In normal situations  the application is granted and returned within 24
hours after arrival.  Exceptionally and in urgent situations, it may be granted upon request by fax.
(b) Exceptionally.(c) No.(d) Swissmedic is the sole organ responsible for examining applications for authorisation.
8. There are no reasons to refuse an application for a licence other than failure to meet the specific
criteria.  The reasons for any refusal are communicated  to the applicant, who has a right to appeal the
                                                     
5 Available under www.swissmedic.ch  (in French, German, and Italian only).G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 30
decision to the administrative authority or to the Appeals Commission and, at second instance, to the
Federal Supreme Court.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. Institutions wishing to import products subjec t to authorisation must obtain the necessary
authorisation from Swissmedic in accordance with the re levant laws.  The authorisation is granted if the
institution meets certain specific operational a nd organisational conditions. Swissmedic regularly
controls compliance with these conditions.  The proce dure for obtaining authorisation is regulated by the
relevant ordinance.  The list of authorised concer ns is regularly published. Moreover, registered products
may only be imported by the institutions in whose name they are registered.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. Only the usual information is required.  Samples of the application form are available on the
website mentioned in footnote 6.  Other certificates may be requested for a more detailed examination of
the quality of the products.
11. In addition to the documents usually required by  the customs services, only the application form
is required. In certain cases more specific information is requested.
12. CHF 100 per licence (see Ordinance dated 9 November 2001 on fees for the services from the
Swiss Institute for therapeutic products (RS 812.214.5)).
13. No.Conditions of licensing
14. The period of validity of the licence is one m onth, generally without possibility of extension.
15-17.  No.Other procedural requirements
18. Certain products, such as imm unological products or stable bl ood products, must be registered
beforehand by Swissmedic.  Moreover, imported batche s of registered products are controlled by the
Official Medicines Control Laborator y (OMCL) of Swissmedic before being introduced into the market.
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force.
(vii) Narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursors used and marketed for legal
purposes
Outline of systems
1. Article 5 of the Federal Law on Narcotics of 3 October 1951 (LStup;  RS 812.121) stipulates
that a special permit is required from the Swissmed ic, Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products, for all
imports (or exports) of narcotic drugs, psychotropic s ubstances and precursors.  Chapter 4 of the Federal
Ordinance on Narcotic Drugs a nd Psychotropic Substances of 29 May 1996 (OStup;  RS 812.121.1) and
Section 3 of the Ordinance of 29 May 1996 on precursor s and other chemical substances used in the
manufacture of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (OPrec; RS 812.121.3) lay down the
procedures for the granting of import permits (and export permits).G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 31
According to the substance involved, Swissmed ic may issue single permits valid once for
import (or export), or general authorisations valid for imports (or exports) carried out over a specific
period of time up to the end of each calendar year (only for narcotic drugs partially exempted from
control under Article 3, paragraph (b) of OStup, and prec ursors).  All substances that are subject to the
permit system appear in the Swissmedic Ordinan ce on Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances of
12 December 1996 (OStup-Swissmedic;  RS 812.121.2) and Swissmedic Ordinance of 8 November
1996 on precursors and other chemical substances us ed in the manufacture of narcotic drugs and
psychotropic substances (OPrec-Swissmedic;  RS 812.121.31). Swissmedic, through the Narcotics
Division, is the organ responsible for granting impor t/export permits.  More detailed information may be
obtained from that organ ( www.swissmedic.ch ).
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. See point 1, paragraph 2.
3. No restrictions.4. The purpose of the licensing system is to ensure that imports (or exports) are carried out for the
sole purpose of satisfying legitimate medical and industrial needs.
5. See point 1.  The licensing system is mainta ined under Federal Law.  The Government would
not have the authority to abolish them.  It can, howev er, change certain details of the system, i.e. the
above-mentioned Ordinances.  There is no delega tion of authority to the administration. There is
however a limited delegation of authority to the ad ministration (to Swissmedic), because the Ordinances
of Swissmedic (812.121.2 of December 12, 1996 and 812.121.31 of November 8, 1996 which include
lists of all controlled substances that are subj ect to the permit system, are under the authority of
Swissmedic.
Procedures
6.I. The quantities that can be imported (and exported) are limited through a system of estimates co-
ordinated by the UN and its International Narco tics Control Board (INCB).  Each country must
report its annual needs in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances to the INCB.  If need be,requests for adaptations of the estimates may be submitted to the INCB, which approves them if
they are legitimate.  The INCB publishes the estim ates for all of the countries, and updates them
on a monthly basis.
II. The estimates are sent once a year to the INCB.  Import (and export) permits are issued only if
the estimates have not been exceeded.  Where they have been exceeded, a request for an
additional estimate must be forwarded to the INCB.
III. Licences are granted only to holders of a cant onal or a Swissmedic authorisation to manufacture
or to market narcotic drugs, psychotr opic substances or precursor chemicals.
IV. There is no time limit for the submission of a pplications provided the amount of the estimate
permits the licence to be issued.
V. The minimum length of time required for granting an import (or export) licence is 24 hours and
the average time is 48 to 72 hours, assuming that all of the documentation and other
requirements have been met.  Where there is no estimate or the estimate is insufficient (a few
cases each year), the time limits are extended to as much as three weeks.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 32
VI. Import licences are valid from the date of issue.
VII. As a rule, only Swissmedic considers licence applications.  If need be, the Swissmedic co-
operates with the cantons or the foreign competent authorities concerned, and the INCB.
VIII. As a rule, all applications for licences are satisfied.
IX. For every import of narcotic drugs, psychotr opic substances or precursors, an import licence is
required. Import licences are only issued upon request.
X. The importing country is informed of any export licence granted by receiving a copy of the
licence.
XI. No.7. Not applicable.
8. Any irregularities, no proven legitimate end-use and so on. In case of a refusal to issue a licence,
the reasons for refusal are given to the applicant, who has the right to appeal within 30 days to the
Ministry of Interior.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. All persons, firms and institutions may apply for a licence provided they are holders of a
cantonal or a Swissmedic authorisation to manuf acture or market narcotic drugs, psychotropic
substances or precursor chemicals.  Swissmedic publishes lists of persons, firms and institutions
authorised by the cantons in accordance with the criteria of the Ordinance on Narcotic Drugs.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. The importer sends a written application for an import licence, listing the products to be
imported and the corresponding quantities.  There is a specific form to be found on the website (see
footnote 6).
11. A copy of the authorisation issued by Swissmedic must be presented to customs.
12. CHF 75 for a single licence, CHF 200 for a general licence.13. No.Conditions of licensing
14. Single import licences are valid three months.  The validity of a general import licence is 12
months, limited to December 31 of each calendar year.
15. No.16. Import licences are not transferable.
17. No.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 33
Other procedural requirements
18. No.
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force.
(viii) Ethanol
Outline of the systems
1. The private sector is allowed to import ethanol and spirits containing not more than 80% by
volume without restriction and without any permit.  For control reasons, only the Swiss Confederation
is entitled through the Swiss Alcohol Board6 to import ethanol whose alcohol content exceeds 80% by
volume. However, imports by the private sector are possible subject to prior authorisation by the
Swiss Alcohol Board.
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing
2. See point 1.  (Tariff headings: 2207.10 and 2207.20)3. These regulations apply to all imports of ethanol, whatever its origin.4. Not for ethanol and spirits containing less than 80% by volume.5. The alcohol legislation is based on Article 105 of the Federal Constitution, which gives the
Confederation the sole right to legislate in this field.  The specific legal basis for the procedure of
import licences is the Federal Law on Alcohol of 21 June 1932 (RS 680).
Procedures
6. Import licences are generally only granted for ethanol qualities, which are not put on the
market by the Swiss Alcohol Board itself.  However, alcosuisse, a profit centre of the Swiss Alcohol
Board, which has responsibility for the importation, and the sale of ethanol, endeavours to provide its
clients with special ethanol qualities on request.
7.-9. See horizontal replies.
Documentational and other Requirements for application for licence
10.-13. Relevant information available on the website (footnote 7).
Conditions of Licensing
14. The application has to be submitted to the Swiss Alcohol Board.  The validity of the licence is
generally limited to a single importation.
15. No.
16. Import licences are not transferable.
                                                     
6 More information and documentation available under http://wwwe-eav.root.admin.ch/  (in French,
German, and Italian).G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 34
17. No.
Other procedural requirements
18. No.
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force.
III. GOODS OF VITAL AGRICULTURAL AND INDUSTRIAL IMPORTANCE
SUBJECT TO COMPULSORY HOLDING OF STOCKS
Outline of systems
1. In accordance with Article 8 of the Federal Law on National Economic Supply (LAP; RS 5317),
the Federal Council may subject certain goods of v ital importance to compulsory holding of stocks.  To
that end, it may place the products concerned under the import-licensing regime.  The granting of a
licence is conditional upon the conclusion of a reserve stock contract.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. To ensure the compulsory holding of stoc ks, the Federal Council has placed the following
goods of vital importance under the import-licensing regi me (tariff heading to be found in Art. 1 of the
respective ordinance, see point 5):
- liquid fuels (Swiss Central Office fo r the Import of Fuels, CARBURA);
- sugar, rice, edible oils and fats, coffee (F iduciary Office of Swiss Foodstuff Importers,
OFIDA,);
- different kinds of cereal (Fiduciary Offi ce of Swiss Holders of Compulsory Cereal
Stocks, OSSOC8);
- antibiotics (Fiduciary Office of Swiss Importers of Antibiotics, OFISA);
- fertilisers (Fiduciary Office of Swiss Owners of Compulsory Stocks of Fertilisers,
OFSE);
- lubrication oil (Swiss Association of Importers of Lubrication Oil, VSS).
The above bodies grant general import licences under the authority of the Federal Office for
National Economic Supply.  They allow importers to import the listed goods from all countries without
quantitative restrictions and for an unlimited period of time.
3. See horizontal replies.
                                                     
7 Available under  http://www.admin.ch/ch/f/rs/rs.html  (in French, German and Italian only).
8 Additional information on German, French, and Italian available under: http://www.tsl-tsg.ch/ .G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 35
4. No.  The purpose of automatic licensing is to en sure the compulsory holding of stocks.  The size
of the compulsory reserve stocks of each importer is  determined on the basis of the imports carried out
(equal treatment for all importers).
5. Legal bases: Federal Law on National Econom ic Supply as well as the ordinances on
compulsory reserve stocks specifi c to each product (RS 531, 215.11, 215.12, 215.13, 215.14, 215.17,
215.25, 215.31, 215.41, 215.48).  The Government may place ot her products of vital importance under
the import-licensing regime.
Procedures
6. Not applicable (no quantitative restrictions).7.(a-b) Applications for a general import licence must be submitted a few days before importation.  In
urgent cases, the licence may be granted immediately by fax.
(c) No.(d) Applications are reviewed by a single service (see point 2).8. See horizontal replies.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. In principle, all persons, firms or institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence provided
they are domiciled in Switzerland.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10-13. See horizontal replies and footnote 9.
Conditions of licensing
14-17. See horizontal replies.Other procedural requirements
18-19. See horizontal replies.
IV. INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS
(i) War material
Outline of systems
1. Importation of War Material is subject to the authorisation regime laid down in the Federal Law
on War Material of 13 December 1996 (RS 514.519) and the Ordinance on War Material of 25 February
1998 (RS 514.511).   The Law and the Ordi nance do not apply to imports of war material  for the Swiss
Army;  other exceptions are mentioned in article 17 lit. 4 of the law.
                                                     
9 Available under  http://www.admin.ch/ch/f/rs/rs.html  (in French, German and Italian only).G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 36
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. The war material whose import is subject to aut horisation is listed in Annex 1 of the Ordinance.
3.  All countries.4. The purpose of the regime is to establish control on the origin, nature and destination of the war
material in question.
5. The regime of authorisations for the import of war material is laid down in Article  107,
paragraph 2 of the Federal Constitution (RS 101).   Thus, the Government does not have the authority to
abolish it.  The products subjected to this regime are listed in Annex 1 to the Ordinance on WarMaterial, which is a governmental text.
Procedures
6. Not applicable (no quantitative restrictions).7.(a-b) There are no standards required by the law nor the ordinance yet as a recommendation,
applications for authorisation  should be submitted at  least seven days in advance of the scheduled date
of importation.  In exceptional cases, the treatment of applications  may be accomplished in a shorter
period.
(c) No.(d) One single organ (the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs seco, Division export controls and
sanctions, of the Federal Economic Department, http://www.seco-admin.ch/ ) is responsible for
examining applications for authorisation.
8. Authorisations are not granted if they interfere with international law or if they are not in the
interest of Switzerland.  Refusals have to be announ ced in a decision that contains the reasons for the
denial.  The right to appeal is guaranteed by the federal law on procedures.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. Any person, firm or institution is eligible to apply for an import licence.Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10.   The applications for import-authorisations  must contain the name and address of the supplier
and of the importer/applicant, a precise description of the war material, its weight and its value, its
customs tariff number and its category (in accordance with the list in annex 1 of the ordinance), the
country from where the import will take place  and (if possible) and the scheduled date of the import .
11. Import licence.
12. 0,8% of the value of the imported goods, but at least CHF 50 and at the most CHF 5,000 per
licence.
13. No.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 37
Conditions of licensing
14. The authorisation to import is valid for one year.  It is possible to obtain one extension of six
months.
15-17. No.
Other procedural requirements
18.  No.
19. No.(ii) Implementation of the Conven tion on the Prohibition of the Development, Production,
Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their destruction (CWC)
Outline of systems
1. The import of chemicals controlled by Schedule 1 of the CWC are subject to an import licence
pursuant to the Swiss Federal Law on the Control of Goods for Civilian and Military Purposes and
Specific Military Goods (RS 946.202) of December 13, 1996;  the Ordinance of the Swiss Federal
Government on dual-use chemicals (ChKV) of Se ptember 3, 1997, and the Ordinance of the Swiss
Federal Department of Economic Affairs on dual- use chemicals (ChKV-EV D) of September 12, 1997
(RS 946.202.21) and the amendment of August 31, 1999 (RS 946.202.211).
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. The Schedule 1 of chemicals that are concerned ar e listed in the Annex of the Ordinance of the
Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs on dual-use chemicals (ChKV-EVD) and reflects the
engagements taken by Switzerland under the CWC.
3. From all countries on a case-by-cas e basis (non automatic licensing).
4. The purpose of the regime is  to prevent the development, the production, the stockpiling and
use of chemical weapons.
5. Switzerland has signed the international bindin g CWC and is therefore obliged to comply with
the provisions of this Convention.  The products, wh ich are subject to this regime, are listed in the
Annex of the Ordinance of the Swiss Federal Depa rtment of Economic Affairs on dual-use chemicals
CHKV-EDV).
Procedures
6. The aggregate amount of such chemicals at an y time must not exceed 1 tonne.  Each importer
has  to notify the Government on the total amount of   imported Schedule 1 chemicals.  This has to be
done at latest 60 days following the end of a calendar year.
7.(a-b) Applications for authorisations  must be submitted at least 40 days in advance of the scheduled
date of importation.  In the relevant Ordinance th ere are no exceptions foreseen for a shorter period.
Licences are granted on a case-by-case basis.
(c)  No.G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 38
(d) The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (seco, http://www.seco-admin.ch/ ), Division export
controls and sanctions, industrial products is responsible for examining an application for a licence.
8. Licences are only granted if the purpose of the importation is not against the provisions of the
CWC.
9. Any person, firm or institution is eligible to apply for an import licence.Documentational and other requirements for a licence application
10. The applications for import authorisations must  contain the name and address of the supplier,
the importer and applicant, the chemical name and th e structural formula of  the product inclusive the
Chemical Abstracts Service registry number (CAS),  the quantity, the country of origin, the shipping
country, the scheduled date of the import.  The fo llowing documents must be presented:  Official
application form, invoice, and a detailed descripti on with regard to the final end-use purpose of the
chemicals.  An undertaking that the chemicals will exclusively be used for research, medical,
pharmaceutical or protective purposes in accordance with the provisions of the CWC.
11. Import licence.
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge.
13. No.
Conditions of licensing
14. The import authorisation is valid for one year.  However,  this  time frame can be extended for
another six-month period.
15-17. The importer has  to notify the Government on  the total amount of  imported Schedule 1
chemicals  during the passed year.  This has to be done at latest 60 days following the end of a
calendar  year.
Other procedural requirements
18. No.19. No.
(iii) Weapons, their accessories and ammunition
Outline of systems
1. The new Federal law on weapons, accessories and ammunition (Weapons Act, RS 514.54)
and the regulation  of the same name  (RS 514.541) became effective on January 1, 1999 . The
Regulation on Ammunition (RS 514.541.1) became effective on March 1, 2002 .  These statutes
supplement the federal laws on war material and on the control of dual-use goods.  Small arms
(shoulder weapons and handguns) and other weapons, such as knives, truncheons, as well as integral
parts of weapons, accessories and ammunition are subject to these provisions.  Some goods are
subject to both the law on war material and the weapons legislation.
The import of goods that fall within the purview of the above federal laws is subject to
licence.  Goods imported for commercial, industrial, and noncommercial purposes are subject toG/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 39
authorization by the Central Office for Arms with the Federal Office of Police (Federal Department of
Justice and Police10).
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing
2. Articles 4 and 5 of the Federal Weapons Act (WA) and articles 3, 4, 5, 5(a), 6, and 7 of the
Regulation on Weapons (RW) define the kind of weapons, integral parts of weapons, speciallydesigned parts of weapons, ammunition, and parts of ammunition that are subject to import licence.
Pursuant to article 48 of the regulation, the import of weapons, integral parts of weapons, specially
designed parts of weapons as defined in article 5(a) RW and accessories as defined in article 4 (2)
WA is subject to special licence.
3. The import of weapons, integral parts of weapons, specially designed parts of weapons,
accessories to weapons, ammunition, and parts of ammunition is governed by the Weapons Act and
the Regulation on Weapons.  These provisions apply irrespective of the country from which suchgoods are imported.
4. The purpose of import regulations is to prevent abuse of weapons, integral parts of weapons,
specially designed parts of weapons , accessories, ammunition, or parts of ammunition.
5. The import licensing procedure is governed by the above legal provisions, in particular articles
23–25 Weapons Act and articles 24–27 Regulation on Weapons.  The executive branch has no power to
abrogate these provisions.  Under article 25 (4) Weapons Act, the Government has authority to make
exceptional provisions regarding weapons, ammuniti on and parts of ammunition used in hunting and
shooting (cf. art. 26 Regulation of Firearms).
Procedures
6.(I.) Customs authorities supply statistical reports on imports (quantity, commodity value, country
of consignment).
The import for non-commercial purposes of weapons, integral parts of weapons, ammunition,
and parts of ammunition are subject to licence (art. 25 WA).  The licence entitles the holder to
import not more than three pieces of weapon or integral parts of weapons at a time (art.
24(3)RW).  Under article 23 (1) Weapons Act imports must be declared officially and in
accordance with the provisions laid down in article 6 (a) of the Customs Act.
Pursuant to art. 48 Regulation on Weapons, the Central Office for Arms  may issue a special
import licence.  This special licence will be issued to one specific person and by way of
exception only.  The granting of a special licence may be subject to certain obligations (art. 48
(2) RW).
(II) Authorization for the import for non-commer cial purposes of weapons, integral parts of
weapons, ammunition, and parts of ammunition must be limited in time (art. 25 (3) WA).  The
import licence gives a right to import within the period specified not more than three pieces of
weapon or integral parts of weapons at a time (art. 24 (3) RW).
(III) Only weapons, integral parts of weapons, specially designed parts of weapons, accessories to
weapons, ammunition, and parts of ammunition itemized in article 4 and  5 Weapons Act and
articles 3 −5(a) Regulation on Weapons qualify for import.  Pursuant to article 48 Regulation
                                                     
10 More information available under http://internet.bap.admin.ch/f/themen/waffen/index.htm  (in
French, German, and Italian only).G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 40
on Weapons, the import of weapons, integral parts of weapons, and specially designed parts
of weapons that fall under the scope of art. 5 (1) Weapons Act, and accessories as defined in
art. 4 (2) Weapons Act, and specially designed parts of weapons defined in article 5(a)
Regulation on Weapons is subject to a special import licence.
Licences issued for import for non-commercial purposes are valid for a limited period only
and give a right to import not more than three pieces of weapon or integral parts of weapons at
a time within the period specified (art. 24 Regulation of Firearms).  After expiration of the
period specified, a new licence may be applied for.  Non-use of a licence has no cumulative
effect, that is, unused allocations may not be added to quotas for a succeeding period.
The names of authorized importers are made known on request only.
(IV) As a rule at least three working days.
(V) The law is silent on the validity of the licence for noncommercial imports.
(VI) After the granting of an import licence, the holder may import immediately.(VII) The Central Office for Arms (art. 24 (5) and 25 (3) WA) is the sole agency authorized to issue
licences.
Foreign nationals who are not in possession of a permission to reside in Switzerland
permanently are required to submit an official confirmation issued by the competent authority
of the place or state in which they have taken up residence, certifying that they are authorised
to purchase a weapon or an integral part of a weapon (art. 24 WA in conjunction with art.12(3) WA).
Article 17 Regulation on Weapons and the Regulation of Ammunition (RA) prohibits the
import of certain types of ammunition.  The Central Office for Arms and Ammunition may
grant a special licence.
(VIII) Not applicable.
(IX.) Not applicable.(X) Not applicable.(XI) Not applicable.7.(a) The import for commercial purposes of weapons, integral parts of weapons, specially
designed parts of weapons, ammunition, or parts of ammunition is subject to licence.  Under article 21
Regulation on Weapons import regulations also apply to goods placed under warehousing
arrangements.
(b) Import licences are issued on request and provided that the applicant holds a gun dealer
licence (art. 24. WA).
(c) The validity of the import licence is limited (art. 24 (5) WA) and valid for twelve months only
(art. 22 (3) RW).  Special import licence for guns, integral parts of guns and specially designed partsof weapons in the sense of article 5 (RA) and articl e 5(a) (RW) is only valid 6 month (article 48 RW).G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 41
(d) Pursuant to article 24 (5) Weapons Act and article 17 (3) Regulation on Weapons, the Central
Office for Arms and Ammunition issues licences for the import for commercial purposes of weapons,
integral parts of weapons, specially designed parts of weapons ammunition, and parts of ammunition
as defined in article 17 Regulation on Weapons.
8. The licence to import for, integral parts of weapons, specially designed parts of weapons,
ammunition, and parts of ammunition will be issued provided that the applicant meets the
requirements established in article 24 Weapons Act and article 22 Regulation on Weapons. The
Central Office verifies the veracity of the statements made by the applicant (art. 22 (2) RW; art 24 (2)
WA).  The licensing authority has discretionary powers.
Article 30 Weapons Act provides the conditions under which a licence may be with revoked.
The Federal Administrative Procedures Law (VwVG; RS 172.021) governs the appeals procedure in
cases in which a licence application has been denied or revoked.
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence
9.(a) Swiss citizens and foreign nationals resident in Switzerland are eligible for an import licence
for non-commercial purposes.  The same requirements apply irrespectively of citizenship.
Foreign nationals who are not in possession of a permission to reside in Switzerland
permanently are required to submit an official conf irmation issued by the competent authority of the
place or state in which they reside, certifying th at they are authorized to purchase a weapon or an
integral part of a weapon (art. 24 in conjunction wi th art 12 (3) WA).  Under certain circumstances the
Swiss Government may impose restrictions (art. 7 WA).
(b) Only holders of a gun dealer licence are eligible for a commercial import licence, authorizing
to import weapons, integral parts of weapons, specially designed parts of weapons,  ammunition, and
parts of ammunition (art. 24 (2) WA).
The Central Office maintains a database on the purchase of weapons by foreign nationals who
are not in possession of a permission to reside in Switzerland permanently (art. 40 (2a) RW).  The law
does not provide for a list of authorized importers to be published.
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence
10. Applicants for a licence to import for commercial purposes weapons, integral parts of
weapons, ammunition, and parts of ammunition are required to complete a printed form and file it,
together with a photocopy of the gun dealer licence, to the Central Office for Arms (art. 22 (1) RW).
Applicants for a licence to  import for non-commercial purposes weapons, integral parts of
weapons, ammunition, and parts of ammunition are required to complete a printed form and file it tothe competent licensing authority.  The following documents must be included (art. 24 (1) RW):
(a) extract from the register of convictions (not older than three months);
(b) photocopy of an official identification card;
(c) photocopy of the gun licence (issued by the cantonal authority).
Applicants for a import licence for guns, integral parts of guns, and specially designed parts of
weapons (art. 5 (1) WA and art. 5(a) RW) are required to complete a printed form and file it, together
with a photocopy of the gun dealer licence, to th e Central Office for Arms (art. 5 (3bis) WA and
24(a), 48 RW).  The following documents must be attached:G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 42
(a) extract from the register of convictions (not older than three months);
(b) photocopy of the special gun licence (issued by the cantonal authority);
(c) photocopy of an official identification card.
11. No further documents are required upon actual import.12. The licensing fees are:
CHF 150 (import for commercial purposes (art. 35 RW and Appendix RW (k));
CHF 50 (import for non-commercial purposes  (art. 35 RW and Appendix RW (l)).
Fees for special licences to import weapons, integral parts of weapons as defined in article 5
(1) Weapons Act, and specially designed parts of weapons (art. 5 (1) WA and art. 5(a) RW) range
from CHF 20 to 150 (art. 35 RW and Appendix RW (c)).
13. Fees up to CHF 200 may be charged beforehand or collected on delivery.  The law does not
provide a deposit.
Conditions of Licensing
14. The licence to import for commercial purposes weapons, integral parts of weapons,
ammunition, and parts of ammunition is valid for twelve months (art. 22 (3) RW).  Upon expiration, anew licence may be applied for.
The licence to import for non-commercial purposes weapons, integral parts of weapons,
ammunition, and parts of ammunition are limited in time (art. 25 (3) WA).  Upon expiration, a new
licence may be applied for.
The validity of special licences granted by the Central Office for Arms  to import weapons and
accessories as listed in article 5 (1) a and e WA are limited in time.  As a rule, special licences are
valid six months.  Upon expiration, a new licence may be applied for.
15. Holders of a licence are free to make use of the licence, or a portion of it, as they see fit.
There is no penalty for the non-utilisation of a licence.
16. Import licences are made out to holder and are not transferable.17.(a) The Government may prohibit nationals of certain states from purchasing weapons, integral
parts of weapons, ammunition, and parts of ammunition (art. 7 (1) in conjunction with art. 9 RW).Under article 17 Regulation on Weapons and the Regulation on Ammunition, the import of certain
types of ammunition is prohibited.
(b) No further restrictions.
Other Procedural Requirements
18. No further restrictions
19. There is freedom of exchange operations.(iv) Explosive materials and pyrotechnic devices for civilian useG/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 43
Outline of systems
1. The Federal Act on Explosive Substances of March 25, 1977 (RS 941.41) and the Regulation
on Explosive Substances of November 27, 2000, (RS 941.411) govern the importation of explosives
and pyrotechnic devices.
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. Articles 2 - 7 of the Regulation define explosives and pyrotechnic devices, which are subject
to import authorization.
3. All countries.4. The import licensing procedure is needed to guarantee public safety in Switzerland in the area
in question.
5. See under point 1.  The above statutory provisions govern the import licensing procedure.
The Government cannot repeal these provisions.  However, article 24 (3) of the Regulation provides
that the Federal Department of Justice and Police may exempt certain pyrotechnic devices from the
requirement of authorization, provided that these devices are an integral part of articles which
themselves are subject to a recognized licensing procedure  (e.g. pyrotechnic propellant charges as
used in air bag units of cars).
Procedures
6. Not applicable (no quantitative restrictions).
7 (a) The licence for the importation of current explosives and pyrotechnic devices shall be granted
within a few days' time.  The procedure for the licensing of articles, which are subject to prior
approval procedures, may take up to six months.
(b) By way of exception, a licence may be granted by telephone and without delay.(c) No.(d) Applications for importation are dealt with by a single administrative organ.8. There are no reasons to refuse an application for a licence other than failure to meet the specific
criteria.  The reasons for any refusal are communicated  to the applicant, who has no right to appeal the
decision.
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. Any person, firm and institution are eligible to apply for licences.Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
11
10. Only the usual information is required for the applications: applicant’s name and address; type
and quantity of the product to be imported and chemical composition;  manufacturer’s or importer’s
                                                     
11 More information also available under: http://internet.bap.admin.ch/  (in French, German, and Italian
only).G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 44
name;  warehouse of destination in Switzerland.  (Regarding explosives, information on impact and
friction sensibility is also required.)
11. Import licence.
12. Depending on the time and effort spent, the licensing fees may range from CHF 50 to 1,000.
13. No.Conditions of licensing
14. Import authorization is valid for three months.  It is possible to obtain two extensions of three
months each.
15.-17. No.Other procedural requirements
18. No.19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports is automatically provided by the banks.  There
are no restrictions on foreign exchange.
(v) Nuclear fuel, debris and waste
Outline of systems
1. The import of nuclear fuel, debris and waste from nuclear facilities is subject to an authorisation
regime under the Federal Law on Atomic Energy of 23 December 1959 (RS 732.0) and the Ordinance
of 18 January 1984 on definitions and authorisations in the atomic energy field (RS 732.11).
Importation of radioactive materials other than  nuclear fuel, debris and waste from nuclear
facilities is subject to the authorisation regime set forth in the Federal Law on Radiation Protection of
22 March 1991 (RS 814.50) and the Ordinance on Ra diation Protection of  22 June 1994 (RS 814.501).
Purposes and coverage of licensing
2. See point 1.
3. No restrictions except as provided in the law.4. The purpose of the regime is to establish control on the origin, nature and destination of nuclear
fuel, debris and waste from nuclear facilities within  the framework of the Non-Proliferation Treaty and
bilateral co-operation agreements.
5. See horizontal replies and point 1.  The licensing regime is governed by federal laws, which the
Government does not have the authority to abolish.  The Government may, however, change the details
of the regime, i.e. the above-mentioned Ordinances. There is no delegation of authority to the
administration.
Procedures
6. Not applicable (no quantitative restrictions).G/LIC/N/3/CHE/4
Page 45
7.(a) The application for import must be subm itted two months in advance of the scheduled
importation date.  In exceptional cases, the time limit may be shortened.
(b) No.(c) No.(d) Applications for authorisati on are examined by the Nuclear Energy Section of the Federal
Energy Office (which has the authority to grant th e licence) and the Main Division for the Safety of
Nuclear Facilities (responsible for the transport of class 7 dangerous goods)
12.  No list of authorised
importers is published.
8. No other circumstances.Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
9. All persons, firms and institutions meeting the re quirements set forth in the relevant laws and
ordinances are eligible to apply for an import licence.
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence
10. There is no specific form.11. Import licence, container certificate and validation.12. The licensing fee is CHF 200 to CHF 2,000.13. No.Conditions of licensing
14. The import authorisation is valid for a maximum of  12 months.  In principl e, it is not renewable.
15-16. No.
17. No.Other procedural requirements
18. An authorisation for heavy vehicles (more than  28 tonnes) could be required for road transport,
as well as a licence for the transport of dangerous goods.
19. The foreign exchange required to pay for imports can be provided by any commercial bank in
Switzerland and there are no restrictions on foreign exchange in force.
__________
                                                     
12 Please refer also to the following website: http://www.energie-schweiz.ch/ .