WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION  
ORGANISATION MONDIALE DU COMMERCE  
ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL DEL COMERCIO WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
9 February 2009 
 ( 09-0595 ) 
Trade Policy Review Body 
15 and 16 December 2008 Original:   English/French/Spanish/ 
 anglais/français/espagnol/  inglés/francés/español 
 
TRADE POLICY REVIEW 
SWITZERLAND AND LIECHTENSTEIN 
Minutes of Meeting
 
Addendum  
Chairperson:  H.E. Mr. Yonov Frederick Agah (Nigeria) 
 This document contains the advance written questions, and replies provided by Switzerland 
and Liechtenstein. __________________________________________________________________________________  
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales 
15 et 16 décembre 2008 
 
EXAMEN DES POLITIQUES COMMERCIALES 
SUISSE ET LIECHTENSTEIN 
Compte rendu de la réunion
 
Addendum  
Président:  S.E. M. Yonov Frederick Agah (Nigeria)  
 Le présent document contient les questions écrites communiquées à l'avance et les réponses 
fournies par la Suisse et le Liechtenstein. __________________________________________________________________________________  Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales 15 y 16 de diciembre de 2008  
EXAMEN DE LAS POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES 
SUIZA Y LIECHTENSTEIN 
Acta de la reunión
 
Addendum  
Presidente:  Excmo. Sr. Yonov Frederick Agah (Nigeria)  
 En el presente documento figuran las pre guntas presentadas anticipadamente por escrito, 
junto con las respuestas facilitadas por Suiza y Liechtenstein.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 3 
 
 
  ADVANCE WRITTEN QUESTIONS 
CHINA Review of Switzerland Report by the  Secretariat
 
Page 5: Chapter I. Economic Environment, (2 ) Recent Economic Developm ent, Paragraph 11:  
"… the revision of federal legislation on government procurement has been postponed." 
Question 1: Chapter III (2)(xi) on Page 64-67 doesn't seem to have incl uded information on 
the afore-mentioned "revision". Would the Delegatio n of Switzerland please provide clarifications 
on this? 
Page 6: Chapter I. Economic Environment, (2 ) Recent Economic Devel opment, Paragraph 16: 
"… The budget surpluses foreseen in the 2009-2011 finance plan  are expected to cover the 
Sw F 4 billion; these surpluses are ba sed on the assumption that nominal growth of GDP will average 
3.1% until 2011."  
Page 16: Chapter I. Economic Environment, (4) Outlook, Paragraph 45:  
"Switzerland's nominal GDP is expected to increase by 3.1% on average during the 2009-11 
finance plan… Average real GDP growth for 2009-11 is forecast at 1.5%." 
Question 2: Putting the information above togeth er, how will Switzerland adjust the forecast 
for its 2009-11 budget situation? 
Page 16: Chapter I. Economic Environment, (4) Outlook, Paragraph 47:  
"… the SNB expects inflation to ease toward the end of 2008." 
Question 3: Does the most recent statistics of  Switzerland confirm this expectation? 
Reports by Switzerland:  
Page 9: II. Economic Environment, (1) Econom ic and Macroeconomic Policy Developments, 
(i) Economic trends, Paragraph 18: 
"… the current instability in inte rnational financial markets will no doubt in the short term affect 
the capacity of Swiss banks to create value adde d, principally because of low prices on the stock 
market and the cutback in mergers and takeovers." 
Questions 4 and 5: Would the Delegation of Switzerland please specify as to how the present 
financial crisis has affected the Swiss banking system ? What can be anticipated for the next couple 
of years? 
Page 10: II. Economic Environment, (1) Econo mic and Macroeconomic Policy Developments, 
(iii) Flows of foreign direct investment, Paragraph 25:  
"… In 2004 and 2005, exports of capital showed a sharp rise from year to year… In 2006, direct 
investment reached a new record of Sw F 94 billion... From 207 onwards, however, this trend 
weakened and, as a result, direct investment fell in comparison with the previous year." WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 4  
 
  Question 6: What is the forecast of Switzerland fo r the next couple of years with respect to 
foreign investment by Swiss firms? 
Questions 7 and 8: Does the Swiss government envisage any plan to stimulate the economy in 
face of the global slowing down? If yes, could th e Delegation of Switzerland please provide some 
more detailed information? 
Review of Liechtenstein 
Report by the Secretariat
 
Page 13: I. Economic Environment, (3) Developmen ts in Trade and Investment, (i) Trade in Goods 
and service, (b) Liechtenstein, Paragraph 36: 
"No data are available on Liechtenstein's trade in services." 
Question 1: Could the Delegation of Liechte nstein explain the reason behind such 
unavailability? 
ARGENTINA  
II. REGÍMENES DE COMERCIO E INVERSIONES 
5) Régimen de Inversiones  
1. En el párrafo 54 el informe menciona que para  la inversión en determinadas actividades (como 
banca, seguros, hoteles, restaurantes, medicina, od ontología, farmacia, abogacía, comerciantes de 
vino, agencias privadas de empleo, servicios de  empleo temporal) la aprobación gubernamental 
está sujeta a cláusulas de "demostración de la necesidad". ¿En qué consiste esta cláusula? 
2. En el párrafo 65, el informe menciona que, en  materia de inversiones, los cantones  pueden 
otorgar ventajas fiscales por un máximo de 10 años  a las empresas nuevas. ¿Podrían explicar en 
qué consisten estas ventajas fiscales y cuáles son los requisitos y las bases sobre las cuales se 
otorgan?  
III. POLÍTICAS Y PRÁCTICAS COMERCIALES, POR MEDIDAS 
2) Medidas que afectan directamente a las importaciones  
ii) Valoración en aduana y normas de origen  
3. En el párrafo 16 el informe indica que el despacho de las mercaderías importadas se realiza sobre 
la base de su peso bruto. No obstante, si est as no están embaladas o si la autoridad aduanera 
considera que su embalaje no les brinda una pr otección "suficiente" contra los daños que se 
puedan producir durante el transporte, se les ap lica una "tara adicional", que es un suplemento 
igual a la diferencia entre el peso bruto y el peso neto, expresado en porcentaje del peso neto.  
- ¿Cuáles son los requisitos que debe cumplir un em balaje para considerar que su protección es 
"suficiente"? 
- ¿Cuál es la norma jurídica que regula estos requisitos? 
3) Medidas que afectan directamente a las exportaciones  
vi) Otras ayudas a la exportación  
4. En el párrafo 127 el informe menciona que en 2007 han entrado en vigor  una nueva legislación 
sobre seguros de riesgos de exportación: la Ley Federal sobre el  seguro suizo contra los riesgos de 
exportación que reemplaza a la Ley sobre garan tías de riesgos de exportación de 1958. ¿Cuáles 
son los cambios que introduce esta nueva ley?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
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  4) Medidas que afectan a la producción y el comercio  
i) Incentivos y asistencia de otro tipo  
5. En el párrafo 128 el informe menciona que en 2008 se llevó a cabo una revisión de la Ley Suiza 
sobre Subvenciones, que estipula los principales criterios y procedimientos aplicables para la 
concesión de subvenciones a nivel federal. En dicha revisión se evaluaron unas 230 subvenciones 
y se concluyó que alrededor de 70 programas de subvenciones deben suspenderse o revisarse, ya 
sea porque son innecesarios o bien por haber resultado ineficientes para alcanzar los objetivos del 
programa. ¿Cuáles son estos 70 programas y cuando se prevé su eliminación o revisión? 
6. En el párrafo 130 el informe menciona que Sui za otorga subvenciones a zonas en "renovación 
económica", cuyo objetivo es apoyar a las empresas privadas con el fin de crear y mantener el 
empleo en esas zonas. 
- ¿En qué consisten estas subvenciones?  
- ¿Cuáles son los requisitos que debe cumplir una empresa para acceder a las mismas? 
- ¿Cuál ha sido el monto de la ayuda otorgado en el periodo bajo examen y a qué sectores 
económicos ha estado dirigida? 
iii) Política de competencia y cuestiones reglamentarias  
7. En el párrafo 147 el informe indica que, atendi endo la escasa competencia y los elevados precios 
de muchos productos y servicios que existen en el mercado suizo, la "Ley federal de Cárteles y 
otras limitaciones a la competencia de Suiza" ha sido modificada en el periodo bajo examen. 
¿Cuáles han sido estas modificaciones? 
IV. POLITICAS COMERCIALES, POR SECTORES 
5) Servicios  
ii) Servicios financieros  
8. En el párrafo 92, el informe indica que hay en curso diversos proyectos de reforma del mercado 
financiero suizo, pero que el más importante es el establecimiento de una  autoridad independiente 
para la supervisión del mercado financiero (FINMA), cuya entrada en funcionamiento de está 
prevista para 1º de enero de 2009.  
- ¿Cuáles son las reformas que introduce este nue vo mecanismo de supervisión con respecto al 
 vigente en la actualidad? 
- ¿Cuáles serán específicamente las funciones y las facultades de la FINMA? v) Servicios profesionales
 
9. En el párrafo 172, el informe indica que, de confor midad con la Ley de Extranjería, la entrada de 
nacionales de terceros países está supeditada a un sistema de cuotas, el cumplimiento del criterio 
de la necesidad del mercado de trabajo y control es previos sobre los salarios y las condiciones de 
empleo. En virtud de esta ley, sólo los trabaja dores con un buen nivel de conocimientos técnicos 
pueden acceder al mercado de trabajo suizo.  
- ¿De qué manera se determinan las "cuotas" de ingreso de extranjeros, en qué cantidad y con 
 qué periodicidad?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 6  
 
  - ¿Por cuánto tiempo se extiende el permiso que ot orga la autoridad suiza para la residencia de 
 un extranjero? 
- ¿Cuáles son los requisitos que se necesitan pa ra acreditar un "buen nivel de conocimientos 
 técnicos"?  
- ¿Un extranjero puede solicitar permiso para tr abajar en cualquier sector laboral (teniendo en 
 cuenta el criterio de la "necesidad del mercado de trabajo") o existen sectores específicamente 
 abarcados por esta ley? 
UNITED STATES 
WT/TPR/S/208
 
III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE 
(2) Measures Directly Affecting Imports 
 (x)   Standards and other technical requirements   (c)   Sanitary and phytosanitary measures Page 63, paragraph 93:
  The Secretariat report states that the cultivation of genetically modified 
organisms and imports of genetically modified anim als were banned for a five-year period until 2010.  
In light of Switzerland's obligations under the WT O SPS Agreement, what is Switzerland's scientific 
basis for such a ban?  In this paragraph, the S ecretariat also indicates that the competent Federal 
authorities must authorize the use and commerciali zation of genetically modified organisms.  
Typically, how long is the authorization process for a bi otech crop for feed or food use or cultivation?  
When last did  Switzerland grant  an authorization? 
(4) Measures Affecting Production and Trade 
(iii) Competition policy and regulatory issues 
Pages 76-77, paragraphs 147-148, 150:  The Secretariat's report suggests that limited competition in 
certain sectors of the Swiss market is a concern.  However, legislation on competition was amended in 2004 and 2006, with a resultant increase in enforcemen t activity.  What have the impacts of the laws 
listed in paragraph 148 and the amendments mentione d in 150 been in terms of supporting increased 
competition?  Do Switzerland and Liechte nstein plan any additional action? 
(iv) Intellectual property (IP) rights 
Patents
 
In paragraph 60 of WT/TPR/G/208, the Government  of Switzerland notes that the patent law has 
recently been revised.  Article 49a of the revised pa tent law requires the disclosure of the information 
on the source of a genetic resource and of traditiona l knowledge of indigenous  and local communities, 
when the inventor had access to such genetic res ource or knowledge and the invention is directly 
based on this resource or knowledge.  It is not clear  when this information is required or why it would 
be relevant to the processing of a patent applica tion.  Please provide details as to when and how the 
disclosure requirement must be met, including instan ces in which an invention is "directly based" on a 
genetic resource or traditional knowledge.  Please also  explain the meaning of the term "indigenous 
and local communities" in the context of Article 49a?    WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 7 
 
 
  In addition, please explain the basis for requiring the disclosure of the origin of genetic resources or 
traditional knowledge. How does this requirement  correspond to Article 27(1) of the TRIPS 
Agreement, which provides that "patents shall be  available and patent rights enjoyable without 
discrimination as to the place of invention, the field of technology and whether products are imported or locally produced?" 
Designs
 
Please confirm that the term of protection for industr ial designs that could be characterized as "spare 
parts" (for automobiles, household equipment and ot her complex articles) conforms with the ten-year 
period provided in Article 26(3) of the TRIPS Agreement? 
Copyrights  
Article 19 of the Swiss copyright law contains a broad private use exception covering "any use of a 
work in the personal sphere or within a circle of  persons closely connected to each other such as 
relations or friends."  This exception also cove rs reproductions of works for internal use by 
companies.  Please explain how this broad exception complies with the "three-step" test set forth in 
Article 9(2) of the Berne Convention an d Article 13 of the TRIPS Agreement. 
IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR   
(1) Introduction Page 90, paragraph 2:
  The agricultural sector remains highly protected despite its limited economic 
importance in terms of contribution to GDP and empl oyment.  The Secretariat's report states that the 
agriculture sector is characterized by relatively high  levels of state intervention and tariffs, limited 
competition, and export subsidies.  In terms of reform ing this sector to bring it more in line with an 
otherwise market-driven economy, which of these areas are priorities?   
(2) Agriculture and Related Activities  (ii) Policy objectives and instruments Page 97, paragraph 24:
 The OECD notes that production and trade-distorting support have been 
reduced but still account for more than half of agricultural producer support.  Some 75% of this 
support falls in the category of "most distortive."  Do Switzerland and Liechtenstein plan to continue 
reducing support, particularly the trade-distortive s upport?  If so, what is the timeline and final target 
that you hope to reach? 
(5) Services  
(iii) Telecommunications  
What progress has Switzerland made in developi ng a plan for reducing extremely high mobile 
termination rates?  Switzerland's rates remain among the highest in any developed country market and 
appear to be significantly above cost, and thus a ma jor impediment to the efficient supply of mobile 
telecommunications services. 
  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 8  
 
  AUSTRALIA  
II. TRADE AND INVESTMENT  REGIMES   
(4) TRADE AGREEMENTS AND ARRANGEMENTS  
(ii) Regional and  bilateral agreements  
1. We note Switzerland has reached an agreement (i n principle) on a Free Trade Agreement with 
Japan (WT/TPR/S/208 page 25 para 32). 
 We would welcome advice on the scope and out comes of the FTA, including on agriculture. 
IV. TRADE POLICIES BY  SECTOR  
(2) AGRICULTURE AND  RELATED ACTIVITIES  
(ii) Policy objectives and instruments 
2. Agricultural Policy 2007 (AP 2007), adopted by Parl iament in 2003, has been Switzerland's main 
policy initiative in the sector during the review pe riod, leading to changes in the Federal Law on 
agriculture and various ordinances.  Specific policy measures introduced under AP 2007 have 
focussed mainly on domestic support and include a gr adual switch to auctioning in the allocation 
of meat quotas (WT/TPR/S/208 page 93 para 13). 
 Could Switzerland explain why it introduced th e auctioning system for tariff-rate quotas on 
meat, and whether consideration was given to other methods for allocating quotas? 
3. Switzerland plans to phase out export subsidies for 'basic agricultural products' by January 2010 
as part of its Agriculture Policy 2011  reforms (WT/TPR/S/208 page 93 para 14). 
 Could Switzerland clarify what arrangement s it is intending to make for processed 
agricultural products? 
4. The Price Compensation Scheme (PCS) compensates for high domestic prices (of locally 
produced raw materials used as inputs by dom estic agri-industries) resulting from Swiss 
agricultural policy measures (WT/TPR/S/208 page 96 para 21). 
 How much does it cost Switzerland each year to operate the PCS? 
(5) SERVICES 
(ii) Financial Services 
5. The Secretariat report notes the relationship of bank secrecy to tax evasion and tax fraud in both 
Switzerland and Liechtenstein (WT/TPR/S/208, pa ge 110-112, paras 81-86 [Switzerland] pages 
113-116, paras 93-103 [Liechtenstein]).  Bank secr ecy laws can distort investment flows and 
undermine the fairness, neutrality and integrity of  tax systems.  Liechtenstein remains on the 
OECD's list of uncooperative tax havens and Switzerland has not fully adopted OECD standards 
of transparency and information exchange for tax purposes. However, recent events involving 
certain European banks have refocussed interna tional attention on the relationship between bank 
secrecy regimes and tax avoidance and evasion. 
 We would appreciate advice of transparency measures implemented by Switzerland and 
Liechtenstein since the last Trade Policy Review in 2004 regarding bank secrecy. 
 We seek advice as to whether Switzerland and Li echtenstein will reconsider their positions 
and lift bank secrecy for all tax purposes?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
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  CHILE  
Del Informe de la Secretaría (WT/TPR/S/208) II. REGÍMENES DE COMERCIO  E INVERSIONES  
1)  Régimen de  inversiones  
i)  Suiza 
Página 43  66.  Se otorga una exención por participación (a nivel  federal, cantonal y municipal) en forma de 
reducción del impuesto sobre la renta a las sociedad es que posean al menos el 20 por ciento de las 
acciones de otra empresa, o con una inversión por un valor de mercado de 2 millones de francos 
suizos como mínimo en otra empresa.  En el primer caso, la reducción abarca también las ganancias 
de capital sobre las inversiones.  La reducción fiscal es proporcional a la relación entre la renta neta 
procedente de la participación c ualificada y los ingresos totales. 
Pregunta: Dado que estas reducciones se dan a varios  niveles, ¿es posible que se superpongan estos 
beneficios? Es decir ¿es posible que se le otorgu en 2 o hasta 3 exenciones (federal, cantonal, y 
municipal) a una misma empresa a la vez? ¿A cuánto  equivale esta relación entre la renta neta y los 
ingresos totales? ¿Cuántos y quiénes son los beneficiarios? 
NEW ZEALAND  
Trade measures 
• At the time of the 2004 review New Zealand questioned the use by Switzerland of specific 
tariffs on goods. New Zealand notes that the Swiss tariff system is composed only of specific rates (WT/TPR/S/208 p.xvii para 13). Does Switzer land have any plans to move to a more 
transparent ad valorem  regime and, if not, what is the rationale for maintaining a wholly 
specific regime?   
Agriculture  
• New Zealand notes the implementation of a progra mme of agricultural reform in Switzerland, 
but notes also the Secretariat's observation that the agriculture sector remains highly protected 
since the last review in 2004 (WT/TPR/S/208 p.90). Given that this has contributed to high 
domestic prices for agricultural and food pro ducts, New Zealand asks whether Switzerland 
has considered the benefits of a more libera lised agriculture sector for consumers and food 
processors, as well as for exporters in the form of greater export opportunities. 
• New Zealand acknowledges the objectives contained within Switzerland's external economic 
policy  to: improve access to external market s; improve competitiveness by making its 
products more competitive; and integrate the largest possible number of countries into the 
global economy (WT/TPR/G/208 p.5 para 4). New Zealand would ask why these laudable 
objectives are not reflected in policies and measu res in place in relation to agriculture – in 
particular, the high tariffs on agricultural goods; the continued subsidies on agricultural products; and the Price Compensation Mechan ism that compensates agriculturally based 
industries for the high domestic prices resulting from agricultural support measures.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 10  
 
  HONG KONG,  CHINA  
Tariffs
 
(WT/TPR/S/208, P. 45-47, Paras. 30-31, and Table III.2) 
1. We appreciate that Switzerland and Liechtenstein have bound 99% of all tariff lines and glad to 
note that generally low tariff rates are applied to non-agricultural products.  In 2008, the ad 
valorem equivalent of tariffs on non-agricultural pr oducts is 2% (a slight decrease from 2.3% in 
2004).  However, we note that some tariff peaks apply to certain non-agricultural products, including textiles and clothing items, the tariff rates of which are over 20% and as high as 121.6%.  We wish to know if Switzerland has any plan to reduce such tariff peaks.  
2. We also note that around 42% of Switzerland's ta riff lines bear non-zero applied "nuisance rates" 
of less than 2%.  Does Switzerland have plans to re move such rates for trad e facilitation purpose?  
Standards and other technical  requirements
 
(WT/TPR/S/208, P. 57-64, Paras. 70-98) 
3. We understand that Switzerland is considering to  amend the requirement of "Swiss Made" label 
for watches, by raising its local content require ment.  We would like to know the details of the 
proposed amendment and also the latest development. 
MFN  exemptions  
(WT/TPR/S/208, P. 108, Para. 71) 
4. As set out in the Secretariat Report, Switzer land has scheduled certain MFN exemptions for 
construction services covering assembly and erection of prefabricated buildings and installation 
work for energy, heating, water, communications and lifts. Would Switzerland clarify the status 
of these exemptions vis-à-vis its MFN exemption list? 
Insurance  services  
(WT/TPR/S/208, P. 116, Para. 106; P. 117, Pa ra. 107; page 119, Paras. 115, 117 & 118) 
5. We note from the Secretariat Report that in Switzerland, composite life, non-life, and             non-
insurance-related operations are not allowed; a nd foreign-owned insurance companies must have 
a representative, which can be either a board member  or a director, with residence in Switzerland.  
Similarly, in Liechtenstein, insurance undertakings  engaged in life insurance may not be active in 
any other branches of insurance other than a fe w exceptions; a special tax is imposed on foreign 
insurance companies; and basic health insurance can only be provided by authorised non-profit 
health insurance companies. We should be gratef ul for clarification on the relationship between 
these limitations and the existing commitments in insurance services. 
Telecommunication services  
(WT/TPR/S/208, P. 121, Para. 125) 
6. We note from the Secretariat Report that following a ComCom (Federal Communications 
Commission) public invitation to tender the universal service licence, Swisscom is the only universal service provider until end 2017 in Switzerland. We would be grateful for clarification as 
to whether this is an exclusive licensing arrangeme nt and its relationship with the existing market 
access commitments in telecommunication services.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
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  JAPAN 
The Secretariat Report (WT/TPR/S/208) 
III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE 
(2) MEASURES AFFECTING IMPORTS 
(xi) Government procurement (Question 1: page 66, paragraph 109) 
The Secretariat report states that there are no de jure  preferences for local suppliers in the government 
procurement in Liechtenstein. 
Please clarify whether or not there are  de facto  preferences as well for local suppliers in the 
government procurement in Liechtenstein. 
(3) MEASURES AFFECTING PRODUCTION AND TRADE 
(iv) Intellectual property (IP) rights 
(Question 2: page 87, paragraph 188) 
(1) According to the Secretariat report, 'Copyright protects literary and artistic creations that possess 
an individual nature, i.e. a certain degree of or iginality. In particular, the following are protected: 
literary works, musical works, works of fine ar t, audio-visual works, choreographic works, 
pantomimes, and scientific works.'  
Please indicate how to protect intangible things as co pyrights, such as pantomimes and dancing.   
(2) Japan suffers from a number of cases in which TV format rights are pirated in Asian countries. 
In this regards, please explain specific legislation in Switzerland for protecting TV format (such as a 
planning of TV program and an idea of TV progra mming). Japan also would like to know whether or 
not such TV format is protected by a law othe r than copyright law in Switzerland which protects 
neighboring rights of producers and broa dcasters relating to videogram.   
(Question 3: page 88, paragraph 192) 
The Secretariat report explains that since its previous Review, to fulfill its EEA obligations, 
Liechtenstein has transposed several EC Directives  in the area of copyrights. The most important 
amendments concern the adaptation of copyrights a nd related rights to technological developments 
and in regard to resale rights of authors. 
Please elaborate on these amendments regarding resale rights of authors.  
IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR 
(5) SERVICES 
(iii) Telecommunications (Question 4: page121, paragraph 127) 
The Secretariat report explains that cross-subsidi zation of telecommunications services is not legally 
prohibited. Japan understands that the Government  of Switzerland has undertaken a commitment in 
Section 1.2 (a) of its Reference Paper, with respect  to the cross-subsidization, in the schedule of 
telecommunications services. 
Please explain how the Government of Switzerland secu res the prohibition of cross-subsidization in 
its legislations. 
(Question 5: page 122, paragraph 131) 
According to the Secretariat report, 'Swisscom has remained the largest company in Switzerland's 
telecom subsector and is the market leader in ever y telecoms activity either under its own brand or WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 12  
 
  through its subsidiaries. As at June 2008, the Fede ral Government held 52% of Swisscom's shares, 
down from 66% in 2005.' In the context of WT O Government Procurement Agreement (GPA), 
Switzerland reported the implementa tion of domestic regulations (GPA /15/Add.1), stating "Swisscom 
was privatized in 1998 and, therefore, is no longer  within the scope of the Ordinance. Accordingly, 
the reference to Swiss Telecom on page  3 of GPA/15 should be deleted."  
(1) Please indicate what criteria the Government of Switzerland has taken to decide that Swisscom has 
been 'privatized'.  
(2) Please explain whether or not Switzerland has notified to the WTO of the modification to the 
annex in accordance with GPA in order to reflect a change regarding Swisscom.  
BRAZIL 
 
IV. Trade Policies by Sector (3) Energy (ii) Oil products 
 Considering that in Switzerland and Liechtens tein bio-fuels fulfilling certain ecological and 
social conditions have been partially or fully exem pt from the mineral oil tax since July 2008, is it 
possible to elaborate on those conditions and on the certification process and on their compatibility 
with WTO rules? Could we have in formation concerning the treatment of the Brazilian ethanol in this 
respect? 
KOREA  
Trade Agreements and Arrangements ("II. Trade and Investment Regimes", p. 25-27)
 
1. Paragraph 32 states that Switzerland has reached an agreement (in principle) on a FTA with 
Japan. 
a) Is there a particular reason the FTA initiative with Japan was not promoted as a joint EFTA 
effort? 
b) Please provide details of the Swiss-Japan FTA. (e.g., inter alia , the coverage in terms of chapters, 
the coverage of the MA chapter (industrial, fisher ies, etc.), the coverage and structure of the 
services chapter (whether adopted a GATS-style approach or a NAFTA style non-conforming 
measures approach), the structure and major ob ligations of the Investment chapter, major 
elements of the IPR and the competition chapter, etc.) 
c) Concurrent to the FTA, was a separate chapter or agreement concluded for agriculture? If so, 
please describe its salient features. 
d) What is the timeline for signature and implementation? 
2. Paragraph 33 states that the EFTA states have finalized the EFTA-Canada FTA. 
a) Please provide details of the EFTA-Canada FTA. (e.g., inter alia , the coverage in terms of 
chapters, the coverage of the MA chapter (industrial, fisheries, etc. ), the coverage and structure of 
the services chapter (whether adopted a GATS-st yle approach or a NAFTA style non-conforming 
measures approach), the structure and major ob ligations of the Investment chapter, major 
elements of the IPR and the competition chapter, etc.) 
b) Concurrent to the FTA, was a separate chapter or agreement concluded for agriculture? If so, 
please describe its salient features. 
c) What is the timeline for signature and implementation?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
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  Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications  
3. Article 22 of the Revised EFTA Convention calls  to "take up and pursue activities ... concerning 
the mutual recognition of diplomas, certificates and other evidence of formal qualifications, and 
the coordination of the provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in the 
Member States concerning the taking up and pursuit of activities by workers and self-employed persons".   
In light of the above,  
a) For the professions included in Appendix 3 to A nnex K, could Switzerland provide the status of 
the activities called for by Article 22 of the Revised EFTA Convention? 
b) Could Switzerland clarify which body (state or  relevant professional associations) holds the 
authority for the recognition of diplomas, certificat es and other evidence of formal qualifications?  
c) If the answer is "relevant professional associati ons" in b), could Switzerland elaborate whether 
there were any difficulties in amassing suppor t for introducing the mutual recognition scheme 
within EFTA? If so, how were these difficulties overcome? 
d) For professional services not specifically mentioned in Appendix 3 to Annex K such as 
accounting services or auditing services, does it mean that those professions are not subject to mutual recognition schemes? 
e) In light of GATS Article 7 (Recognition), woul d Switzerland be open to providing "adequate 
opportunity for other interested Members to negotia te their accession to such an agreement or 
arrangement or to negotiate comparable ones with  it"? If yes, what would be the procedures that 
Switzerland envisages? 
4. In relation to the Swiss-EC 'Agreement on th e Free Movement of Persons', please provide a 
detailed list of professional services to whic h recognition of diplomas apply under the said 
agreement. 
Investment Regime (Secretariat Report, " II. Trade and Investment Regimes", p. 32-33)
 
5. In paragraph 53 of the Secretariat Report, it is st ated that "As a general rule no approval from the 
Government, chambers of commerce or professi onal associations is required to establish a 
business. A work and residence permit is neve rtheless required to conduct a business personally 
on a permanent basis; foreigners without a residence permit may employ Swiss nationals to 
operate their business. Swiss nationals do not need to hold a certain percentage of the equity." 
Based upon these descriptions, it may be reasoned that the issuance of a work permit or a 
residence permit could act as a de facto  deterrence for foreign participation in the Swiss market. 
In light of the above concern, please provide answers to the following: 
a) What are the requirements and procedures to obtain a work permit? 
b) What are the requirements and procedures to obtain a residence permit? 
c) Is there difference in treatment based on na tionality (EC and EEA vs. non-EC and non-EEA) 
when submitting and obtaining a work/residence permit?  
d) Are work/residence permits issued for non-EC a nd non-EEA nationals within the numerical limit 
of 4,000 (residency permit) and 7,000 (short-term  permits) set annually in accordance with the 
Foreign Nationals Act ? 
6. In paragraph 53 of the Secretariat Report, it is stat ed that "... investment restrictions continue to 
apply to areas under state monopolies, including ...  certain insurance services and commercial 
activities (e.g. trade in salt)."  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 14  
 
  In light of the above, please list the type of investme nt restrictions that apply for "certain insurance 
services and commercial activities (e.g. trade in salt) ." Please also elaborate on the need for such 
restrictions. 
7. Paragraph 54 of the Secretariat report describes the licensing and/or diploma requirements for 
services sectors and related Mode 4 prov isions in place in Switzerland.  
a) Please clarify whether nationality and/or residenc y requirements exist in services-related licenses 
in Switzerland. If so, please provide which license( s) require nationality and/or residency for the 
issuance of the license. 
b) In regards to the annual quota set for non-EC and non-EEA nationals in accordance with the 
Foreign Nationals Act , please provide statistics on (1) the yearly quota (residency permit and 
short-term permit separately) for the past 6 year s (2002-2007), (2) the yearly 'fill rates' of these 
quotas for the past 6 years (2002-2007), and (3) th e top 5 nationalities making use of these quotas. 
8. In paragraph 56, it is noted that "The requireme nt for the majority of the board of directors 
(except for holding companies) to be Swiss citiz ens with domicile in Switzerland, or EC or EFTA 
countries citizens residing in an EC or EFTA country was eliminated in January 2008."  
Korea welcomes this new development, and looks forward to this change in the domestic law of 
Switzerland to be reflected in the next revision of Switzerland's schedule of specific commitments for 
Services. 
Services (Secretariat Report, "IV. Trade Policies by Sector", p. 107-135)
 
< Construction Services > 
9. Paragraph 75 of the Secretariat report lists some of the problems linked with Switzerland's 
construction sector. 
In light of these problems, please elaborate on the measures, if any, which have been implemented by 
the Swiss Federal government since the previous Tr ade Policy Review to resolve this problem. Please 
provide detail on the effectiveness of these measures. 
< Legal Services > 
10. Paragraph 175 of the Secretariat report states the requirement of a Cantonal license to practice law 
as "... graduate degree awarde d by a Swiss university, followe d by practical experience in 
Switzerland of at least one year...". 
By limiting the recognition of diploma to 'graduate degree awarded by a Swiss university', are these 
Cantonal license requirements not in violation of the NT requirement? 
< Auditing Services > 
11. Could Switzerland provide an English version full copy of the "Federal Law on the Licensing and 
Oversight of Auditors (LSR)"? My delegation would be interested to better understand the 
licensing and oversight structure/system in place in Switzerland. 
< Medical, Dental, and Veterinary Services > 
12. With regards to the GATS schedule of specific commitments of Switzerland in Medical, Dental, 
and Veterinary Services, please provide answers to the following: 
a) Please clarify whether Medical, Dental, and Veterinary Services are regulated by federal law or 
cantonal law in Switzerland.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 15 
 
 
  b) Under current laws regulating the Medical, Dental, and Veterinary Services, is there a regulation 
limiting the type of legal entity of the service pr ovider? I.e., may a medical services provider be 
incorporated as a joint-stock corporation? 
c) (If the answer to b) is 'yes') With regards to the "unbound" commitment in Mode 3 in the Market 
Access column for Medical, Dental, and Veterinary Services, please confirm whether in the current law (either federal or cantonal), fo reign capital participation is prohibited. 
d) (If the answer to c) is 'no') Will Switzerland consider taking this commitment in Mode 3 
(MA column) in the near future? If not,  what are the reasons? Please clarify. 
< Distribution Services > 
13. With regards to the GATS schedule of specific commitments of Switzerland in Distribution 
Services, please provide answers to the following: 
Please clarify the meaning of the entry "Some cantons have restrictions on sales area." Could 
Switzerland provide concrete examples  of such restrictions that may be found in cantonal laws as 
Geneva canton or Vaud canton? 
EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES  
I. ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT 
(1) M
AJOR FEATURES OF THE ECONOMY  
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 1, para. 37 The Secretariat report outlines that as a memb er of EFTA, Switzerland and Liechtenstein are 
negotiating bilateral free trade agreements with Alge ria, India, Peru, and Thailand. Negotiations with 
Colombia and the Gulf Co-operation Council have b een concluded in substance. They also envisage 
entering into bilateral negotiations on free trade ag reements with, inter alia, Albania, Indonesia and 
Serbia and Ukraine. 
1. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein elaborate further on how they intend to encourage 
sustainable development and core labour standard s in the context of negotiations with third 
countries? 
III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE 
(2)  M
EASURES DIRECTLY AFFECTING IMPORTS  
(ii)  Customs valuation and rules of origin 
(b)  Rules of Origin  
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 42, para. 18 
2. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein provide  information on the mentioned Ordinance?  
The EC notes that in Paragraph 18 only transport to third countries is mentioned. 
3. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein explain the l ack of reference to other requirements laid 
down in rules of origin?  
Comments to WTO Secretariat  
The EC would suggest introducing two corrections to the report, in particular  regarding paragraph 20: 
"In 2005, rules of origin applied in trade between the EC and the EFTA states  were amended in order 
to adapt them to the pan-Eu ro-Mediterranean cumulation model (Chapter II(4)(ii)(a))".   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 16  
 
  And paragraph 22: 
"The only fundamental difference is the full cumulation, which is only provided  for within the EEA." 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 43, para. 19 
The EC notes that the preferential rules of origin in  general require a fairly high degree of minimum 
local content (50%-70%).   
4. In this regard, could Switzerland and Liechtens tein please indicate the utilisation rate of its 
LDC Duty Free Quota Free scheme, i.e. what percentage of Least Developed Country imports into Switzerland and Lichtenstein are actually covered by the Duty Free Quota Free regime? 
The report also states that the rules of origin governing imports under GSP schemes are being revised. 
5. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein clarify this statement? Is it intended as a reference to the 
EC's planned reform of GSP rules of origin?  
(2) M
EASURES DIRECTLY AFFECTING IMPORTS   
(iii) Tariffs (c)  Tariff preferences 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 50, para.  36 
6. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein please clarif y the coverage of its preferential regime 
towards Least Developed Countries: the WTO Secr etariat report mentions  99.6% coverage for 
agricultural products, with an exception being made for sugar and 100%  coverage for   non-
agricultural products? 
7. Assuming that these percentages are in terms of tariff lines, what would be the corresponding 
coverage in terms of trade?    
Report of Switzerland and Liechtenstein, page 28, para. 79 
8. Could Switzerland please inform us under whic h document its Duty Free Quota Free scheme 
(or "zero-tariff initiative") has been notified to  the WTO? If it has not yet done so, could 
Switzerland indicate when it will intend to do so?   
It is stated that Switzerland "gives developi ng countries large reductions in customs duty on 
agricultural and textile goods and even  exemption for all other goods".   
9. Could Switzerland please elaborate on the sc ope and coverage of  these reductions, and 
explain which countries are the beneficiaries of this preferential treatment?  
(2) M
EASURES AFFECTING PRODUCTION AND TRADE  
(iv) Incentives and other assistance 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 70-73, para. 128 The WTO Secretariat's report states that the tax re gime applicable to foreign companies includes low 
tax rates applicable in Liechtenstein to foreign companies domiciled but not active in the country. 
10. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein explain how such measure may not divert, or cause to 
re-orient, investments from one country to another?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 17 
 
 
  IV.    TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR   
(2) A GRICULTURE AND RELATED ACTIVITIES  
(ii)  Policy objectives and instruments 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 92, paras. 13 and 18 
The report notes the use of "auctioning" in the allocation of some tariff quotas (mainly meat).  
Auctioning is a quite controversial method of tariff quota administration and the EC is opposed to its 
use. In the ongoing DDA negotiations, the u se of auctioning is not contemplated. 
11. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein please ela borate upon their position on "auctioning"? 
12. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein please clar ify the discrepancy between the government's 
report (para. 13) which mentions an exclusion for sugar ('to which a zero reduction applies 
until September 2009'), and the Secretariat's re port which mentions an exclusion for rice and 
sugar, with gradual tariff reduction to zero? 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 93, para.  14 
According the WTO Secretariat's report, based on the Agricultural Policy 2011 (AP2011) – which 
runs from 2008 to 2011 –, export subsidies on basi c agricultural products are to be phased out by 
January 2010 (and July 2009 for potatoes and dairy products). 
13. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein explain how this relates to export subsidies for 
processed agricultural goods (sector on which Swit zerland still remains an important user)?   
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 94, para. 17 
The report states that the "complex system of 'ind icative'/'threshold' prices remains in place for 
agricultural products". The EC notes that the use of th e system is currently limited to feeding stuffs 
and seeds and that indicative/threshol d prices have generally been reduced during the last years. It is 
also acknowledged that these threshold prices ha ve a negative impact on predictability and 
transparency of applied MFN tariffs. 
14. Given these factors, could Switzerland and Liechtenstein comment on any possible 
evolution/simplification of this system?   
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 94, para. 18 
In its description of the methods to allocate impor ts within a Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ), the WTO 
Secretariat report refers to the "prise-en-charge" system.  
15. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein expl ain this procedure in more detail? 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 95, para. 24 
The report identifies a continued and gradual reducti on in the level of support since the last Trade 
Policy review of Switzerland and Liechtenstein. However, production and trade distorting policies 
still account for more that half of that support and in  the current context of the WTO negotiations, this 
is a cause for concern in the EC.  
16. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein indicate in detail the measures that might be taken to 
reduce this trade distorting support?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 18  
 
  (3) S
ERVICES   
(iv)  Construction services (a) Switzerland 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 108, para. 73 
17. Concerning construction services, could Switzerland elaborate on the statement "in the past, 
there have been a relatively large number of restrictive arrangements and other                  
anti-competitive practices among suppliers that  limited entry of new, including foreign, 
suppliers" with a view to explaining the measur es that have since been taken in order to open 
the market to foreign suppliers? 
18. Could Switzerland provide figures on the curre nt market share of foreign construction 
companies in the market? 
(v) Transport 
(b) Air transport  
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 125, para. 144 Comment to the WTO Secretariat:
 
With regard to EC technical regulations, it is im portant to note that in accordance with Regulation 
(EC) No 1008/2008 of 24 September 2008 on common rules for the operation of air services in the 
EC, it is Article 5 on 'Financial conditions for gran ting an operating licence' th at establishes that the 
competent licensing authority shall closely assess whet her an undertaking applying for the first time 
for an operating licence can demonstrate, inter alia, th at it can meet at any time its actual and potential 
obligations established under rea listic assumptions, for a period of 24 months from the start of 
operations.  
In that regard, paragraph 144 should stipulate that  it is the operating licence, not the AOC, that is 
issued on the basis of a business plan that sh ows that the company can meet, under realistic 
assumptions, its actual and potential obligations fo r 24 months, but it does not testify that the 
company will necessarily meet those obligations. 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 126, para. 152 
Comment to the WTO Secretariat:  
Regarding the European Aviation Safety Agency (E ASA), it is important to note that Liechtenstein 
became a member of Management Board of EA SA in June 2006 and that Switzerland became a 
member in the Management Board of EASA in December 2006. 
(vi) Tourism 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 129, para. 164 
19. Could Switzerland explain on which basis cantons may restrict access to exams for foreigners 
and may restrict the ability of foreign mountain guides and ski instructors to practise 
independently?  
   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 19 
 
 
  COLOMBIA   
REPORTE DE LA SECRETARÍA WT/TPR/S/208 PREGUNTAS  
II. REGÍMENES DE COMERCIO E INVERSIONES 5) RÉGIMEN DE INVERSIONES 
i) Suiza 52. Suiza ha establecido condiciones generales favorab les a los inversores.  Es una de las economías 
más competitivas del mundo. Como norma general, la lib ertad de comercio e industria y el derecho de 
propiedad están protegidos por la Constitución.  El Code des Obligations es el principal fundamento jurídico aplicable a la inversión. 
¿En que consiste el "Code des obligations"? ¿Quién lo regula? 
54. Se pueden aplicar disposiciones sobre licencias y prescripciones en materia de títulos de aptitud en 
algunas actividades, como banca, seguros y corretaje de  inversiones;  hoteles y restaurantes;  ejercicio 
de la medicina, la odontología, la farmacia y la a bogacía;  y determinadas empresas de comercio y 
servicios (por ejemplo, comerciantes de vino, agencias privadas de empleo, servicios de empleo 
temporal).  Los extranjeros pueden desarrollar esta s actividades en Suiza siempre que cuenten con los 
permisos necesarios.  En determinados casos, la probación (para los extranjeros, así como para los 
suizos) está sujeta a cláusulas "demostración de la ne cesidad" (capítulo IV 5) vii)).  Se prevé que para 
2014 se liberalizarán completamente los requisitos de residencia para los nacionales de las CE y el 
EEE, en el marco del acuerdo bilateral con las CE  sobre libertad de movimiento de las personas 
(sección 4) ii) c) supra).  Según la Ley de Extranjería,  el ingreso de nacionales de terceros países (no 
residentes de las CE ni la AELC) está sujeto a un sistema de contingentes, pruebas de necesidad del 
mercado laboral, y controles previos sobre salarios y condiciones de empleo.  En 2007, el contingente 
anual fue de 4.000 permisos de r esidencia y 7.000 permisos de corta duración.  Los contingentes para 
todo el país se distribuyen por cantón.  No se exige ningún permiso para comprar bienes raíces 
comerciales ni industriales, ni residencias principales. 
¿Quién controla y regula el ingreso de nacional es de terceros países (no residentes de las CE ni 
la AELC)? 
ii) Liechtenstein 
68. El régimen de inversiones de Liechtenstein se basa en un entorno comercial estable y en un 
atractivo sistema de tributación.  No se aplican r estricciones a la inversión, excepto algunos controles 
sobre la compra de bienes raíces y restricciones apli cadas a cierto número de servicios financieros (a 
saber, administración de activos, consultoría de inversiones, y administraciones fiduciarias) en caso de 
que sean suministrados profesionalmente por admini stradores fiduciarios o sociedades fiduciarias 
(capítulo IV 5) ii)). 
Colombia se permite solicitar un listado general de los incenti vos a la inversión que ofrece 
Suiza/Liechtenstein o de las condiciones favorab les a los inversores a los que hace referencia. 
¿Existe en Suiza/Liechtenstein alguna política de Gobierno en relación con el manejo, 
administración y defensa frente a demandas en materia de inversión,  presentadas por 
inversionistas en contra del Estado?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 20  
 
  ¿Existe algún fondo público cuyo objeto sea el de cubrir los gastos del Estado por concepto de 
condenas y erogaciones ocasionados por demandas co ntra el Estado en materia de Inversión? 
¿Qué autoridad está encargada del control de las inversiones extranjeras? ¿Qué ente lleva la 
información estadística sobre IED? ¿Está reglame ntado el aporte de información relacionada 
con IED? 
69. La Ley sobre personas y empresas de 1926 actualizada  reglamenta las personas jurídicas de 
Liechtenstein (el Código PGR), y la complementa la  Ley sobre empresas fiduciarias de 1928.  En el 
marco del Código PGR se puede crear una amplia gama de entidades jurídicas, las más comunes de las cuales son la sociedad de responsabilidad limita da por acciones;  la sociedad de responsabilidad 
limitada;  el estab lecimiento (Anstalt);  la fundación (Stif tung);  la empresa fiduciaria;  y el 
fideicomiso.  Otros tipos de entidades incluyen la sociedad en comandita por acciones, la sociedad por 
cuotas de responsabilidad limitada, la asociaci ón, la asociación cooperativa, y la empresa sin 
personalidad jurídica.  Los bancos y las empresas fi nancieras sólo pueden adoptar la forma jurídica de 
una compañía pública de responsabilidad limitada por acciones o una Societas Europae (SE);  la 
Autoridad del Mercado Financiero puede otorgar excepciones.  Todas las formas de personalidad 
jurídica pueden ser también sociedades holding o domiciliarias. 
¿Quién es la Autoridad del Mercado Financiero, es una entidad pública, privada o mixta? 
III. POLÍTICAS Y PRACTICAS COMERCIALES, POR MEDIDAS 2) MEDIDAS QUE AFECTAN DIRECTAMENTE A LAS IMPORTACIONES iii) Aranceles 
25. De acuerdo a la Ley Federal  sobre el Arancel de  Aduanas, el Consejo Federal puede modificar los 
aranceles aplicables en la Unión Adua nera cuando se considere necesario.  
¿Específicamente en que casos o situaciones se co nsidera necesario? ¿A qué tipo de evaluación 
es sometido estos casos, que criterios se tienen en cuenta para modificarlos? El aumento de 
aranceles aplica a terceros países y puede afectar las preferencias otorgadas por Suiza bilateralmente? 
iv) Exenciones y reducciones arancelarias  39. En este aparte se menciona que pueden impor tarse con derechos re ducidos determinados 
productos, según su uso final. Se trata principa lmente de productos agrícolas (cereales, semillas 
oleaginosas y aceites alimenticios) y papel.   
¿Qué metodología se emplea para calcular esta reducción arancelaria? ¿Esta reducción es 
permanente? ¿Cuál es el listado de productos agr ícolas que se beneficiarían de esta reducción? 
4) MEDIDAS QUE AFECTAN A LA PRODUCCIÓN Y AL COMERCIO 
i) Incentivos y asistencia de otro tipo 
128. Dentro de los incentivos y asistencia que so n empleados por Suiza y Liechtenstein  a la 
producción y el comercio existe la ayuda a nivel subfederal.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 21 
 
 
  ¿Este tipo de subvenciones son adicionales a las ya establecidas a nivel Federal?, ¿Las 
subvenciones a nivel subfederal abarcan el mismo listado de productos  subvencionados a nivel 
Federal? ¿Las subvenciones subfederales pue den determinar de forma autónoma a que 
productos y en que cuantía beneficiar con esta ayuda?, ¿Qué organismo o institución controla 
las subvenciones a nivel subfederal?, ¿Cada cuan to tiempo son revisadas estas subvenciones 
subfederales? 
ii) Actividades comerciales del Estado y empresas  de comercio del Estado  
141. Teniendo en cuenta que "Alcosuisse" tiene el derecho exclusivo de importar etanol con un 
contenido de alcohol superior al 80% en volumen  y es quien otorga la autorización correspondiente 
para la importación de etanol por el sector, ¿Cuáles son los requisitos y condicionamientos para 
acceder a la importación de etanol tanto los exig idos por "Alcosuisse", como por alguna entidad 
privada?, ¿Existe limitaciones cuantitativas para la importación de etanol?   
Teniendo en cuenta que la existenc ia de la Junta Federal de Alc oholes es por motivos de salud publica 
para reducir la producción y el consumo de bebidas alcohólicas, Colombia solicita conocer si la 
Junta Federal esta facultada para controlar la importación de alcoholes con volumen menor al 
80%?, ¿De ser así, cuales son las medidas y requisitos? 
iv) Derechos de propiedad intelectual (DPI) e) Derecho de autor y derechos conexos 
188. El derecho de autor protege las creaciones lite rarias y artísticas que tienen  un carácter particular, 
es decir, cierto grado de originalidad.  En par ticular, están protegidas las obras literarias, las obras 
musicales, las obras de bellas artes, las obras audiovisuales, las obras coreográficas, las pantomimas y 
las obras científicas.  El derecho de autor también pr otege el software (programas informáticos).  Los 
artistas intérpretes o ejecutantes, los productores de  medios de audio y audiovisuales, y las compañías 
de radiodifusión (en particular, te levisión y radio) están protegidas al amparo de los derechos 
conexos, que abarcan las interpretaciones o ejecuciones y las reproducciones, así como las grabaciones y emisiones de audio y audiovisuales. 
A efectos de establecer cuál es el "cierto grado de originalidad" que demanda la Ley Suiza
1 
para la protección de las obras literarias y ar tísticas, Colombia quisiera conocer su aplicación 
práctica, en particular el alcance que  los Tribunales han dado al mismo.  
                                                      
1  Loi fédérale sur le droit d'auteur et les droits  voisins (Loi sur le droit d'auteur, LDA). 231.1 
"Art. 2 Définition:   
1. Par oeuvre, quelles qu'en soient la valeur ou la  destination, on entend toute création de l'esprit, 
littéraire ou artistique, qui a un caractère individuel. 
2. Sont notamment des créations de l'esprit:  a. les oeuvres recourant à la langue, qu'elles soient 
littéraires, scientifiques ou autres;  b. les oeuvres musicales et autres oeuvres acoustiques;  c. les oeuvres des beaux-arts, en particulier les peinture s, les sculptures et les oeuvres gr aphiques;  d. les oeuvres à contenu 
scientifique ou technique, tels que les dessins, les plans, les cartes ou les ouvrages sculptés ou modelés;  e. les 
oeuvres d'architecture;  f. les oeuvres des arts appliqués;  g. les oeuvres photographiques, cinématographiques et les autres oeuvres visuelles ou audi ovisuelles;  et h. les oeuvres chorégraphiques et les 
pantomimes. 
3 Les programmes d'ordinateurs (logiciels) sont également considérés comme des oeuvres. 4 Sont assimilés à des oeuvres les projets, titres et parties d'oeuvres s'ils constituent des créations de 
l'esprit qui ont un caractère individuel."
 WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 22  
 
  189. La protección mediante el derecho de autor y derechos conexos se aplica automáticamente a 
partir del momento de la creación.  No se requi ere formalidad alguna, y no es necesario depositar 
copia.  El Instituto no ma ntiene un registro de los derechos de au tor.  En Suiza, la protección mediante 
el derecho de autor finaliza transcurridos 70 años desde el fallecimiento de éste, mientras que la 
protección del software finaliza transcurridos 50 años  a partir de ese momento.  Los derechos conexos 
finalizan transcurridos 50 años desde la interpretación o ejecución de la obra por el artista intérprete o 
ejecutante, la publicación (o, en su defecto, la produ cción) de los medios de audio o audiovisuales, o 
la emisión de la radiodifusión. 
¿Por qué existe una diferenciación entre el término de protección de las obras artísticas y 
literarias en general, frente al término de protección del software
2?  
191. En Liechtenstein, la protección mediante el de recho de autor está garantizada por la Ley sobre 
derecho de autor y derechos cone xos, de 19 de mayo de 1999.  Una ordenanza conexa regula la 
explotación colectiva del derecho de autor y derec hos conexos, así como las medidas relativas a las 
importaciones y exportaciones de productos cuya distri bución en el país infrinja el derecho de autor y 
derechos conexos.  En Liechtenstein, el agotamie nto internacional está establecido por ley en el caso 
de los derechos de autor y las topografías conexas. 
¿Qué se entiende por "topografías conexas", en relación con el Derecho de Autor3? (numeral 
191 del documento WT/TPR/S/2008) 
viii) Propiedad intelectual 
61. En cuanto a la revisión de la Ley de Derecho de  Autor (LDA, RS 231.1) , en  vigor desde el 1º de 
julio de 2008, su primera función es la ratificación de  dos tratados de la Organización Mundial de la 
Propiedad Intelectual (OMPI).  La incorporación al  derecho suizo del nivel de protección prescrito por 
el Tratado de la OMPI sobre Derecho de Autor (WCT, sigla de "WIPO Copyright Treaty") y el Tratado de la OMPI sobre Interpretación o Ejecución y Fonogramas (WPPT, sigla de "WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty"), ambos del 20 de diciembre de 1996, permite adaptar el 
derecho de autor a los avances tecnológicos.  El desfase entre el derecho de autor y la evolución 
tecnológica ha hecho también necesaria una reformul ación de las restricciones del derecho de autor, 
definidas en función de tecnologías analógicas y, por lo  tanto, no adaptadas al entorno digital.  El 
resultado de esa reformulación ha sido una mejor atención de los intereses de los usuarios y los consumidores en la ley.  En particular, se ha revi sado la restricción a favor de la utilización de obras 
con fines privados y se ha adaptado el sistema de remuneración para evitar la excesiva imposición de 
los consumidores que obtienen obras a través de servicios especiales. 
¿Cómo funciona el sistema de remuneración mencionado en el numeral 61 del documento 
WT/TPR/G/208, el cual "se ha adaptado… pa ra evitar la excesiva imposición de los 
consumidores que obtienen obras a través de  servicios especiales"? ¿A qué se refiere por 
"excesiva imposición"?, y ¿En qué consisten los "servicios especiales"? 
                                                     
 
2 Loi fédérale sur le droit d'auteur et les droits  voisins (Loi sur le droit d'auteur, LDA). 231.1 
"Art. 29 Généralités:   
1. L'oeuvre, qu'elle soit fixée sur un support matéri el ou non, est protégée par le droit d'auteur dès 
sa création. 
2. La protection prend fin:  a. pour les logiciels, 50  ans après le décès de l'auteur;  et b. pour toutes 
les autres oeuvres, 70 ans après le décès de l'auteur".  
3 Law of 19 May 1999, regarding Copyright and Neighboring Rights (Copyright Law). Liechtenstein 
Law Gazette (Liechtensteinisches Landesgesetzblatt), 1999 Volume, No. 160, published on 23 July 1999. 
"Principle of Exhaustion. 13. If a copy of a work  or a reproduction of a computer program or of a 
database has been put into circulation by way of sale with the consent of the rightholder, the right of 
distribution relating thereto shall thereby be exhausted. This shall not apply with regard to rental right".  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 23 
 
 
  xi) Contratación pública  
100. Los compromisos de Suiza en virtud de los acuerdos internacionales sobre contratación pública 
han sido incorporados a su legislación nacional a nivel federal (administración central), y a nivel 
subfederal (cantonal y municipal).  A nivel federal,  la transposición del ACP a la legislación federal 
suiza se hizo mediante la Ley Federal sobre cont ratación pública de 1994 (al 1º de enero de 2008) y su 
Ordenanza de 1995, que establece normas detalladas para  la contratación por debajo y por encima de 
los umbrales del ACP.  A nivel subfederal, los 26 cantones suizos operan con arreglo al Concordato 
Intercantonal de 1994 (acuerdo revisado en 2001) sobre contratación pública, y sus directivas 
ejecutivas.   Los compromisos de Suiza en virtud del ACP no son aplicables a la contratación por los 
ferrocarriles federales y la Administración Postal Sui za.  Las exclusiones de la cobertura, por motivos 
de seguridad, también son posibles para la cont ratación por empresas de propiedad estatal.  Suiza 
formuló reservas sobre la aplicación del ACP a otros signatarios que no habían otorgado un acceso comparable y efectivo a las empresas suizas en dete rminadas actividades.   En las negociaciones en 
curso sobre contratación pública, en 2006 Suiza presentó  una oferta inicial, que liberalizaría más su 
régimen de contratación pública. 
En este contexto Colombia desea  conocer ¿cuáles son las mejora s en acceso a mercados que ha 
propuesto Suiza en el marco de las negociaciones del ACP de la OMC? ¿Podría cuantificar estas 
mejoras en términos de valor de contratos? 
IV.  POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES, POR SECTORES 2) AGRICULTURA Y ACTIVIDADES AFINES i) Panorama general y pr incipales características 
10. En este aparte Suiza se refiere a su estabilidad en los índices de autosufici encia en la mayoría de 
productos. Sin embargo, en el pá rrafo 11 afirma textualmente que "Suiza y Liechtenstein son 
importadores netos de productos agrícolas y alimenticios".  
Por lo anterior, es conveniente solicitar la aclara ción sobre los productos netos de importación a 
que refiere el párrafo 11. 
ii) Objetivos e instrumentos de política Párrafo 17.  En lo relativo al sistema de precios  "indicativos" o "de umbral" aplicado para productos 
agropecuarios Colombia solicita una descripción detallada  de la metodología y explicación con 
ejemplos que incluyan las fuentes de los precios indicativos o de umbral.   
Dado que el Departamento Fede ral de Economía determina la "horquilla" admisible para las 
fluctuaciones de los precios de importación, Colombia tiene las siguientes inquietudes: 
- Conocer la definición de "horquilla" y como se conforma. - Que parámetros utiliza el Departamento Federa l de Economía para determinar la horquilla. 
18. Teniendo en cuenta que Suiza y Liechtenstein emplean en la administración de contingentes el 
sistema de prise en charge combinado con otro tipo de procedimientos como subastas, prorrata, entre 
otros.  Colombia considera oportuno solicitar una de tallada explicación del funcionamiento del 
sistema de prise en charge, con subasta, pr orrata y demás procedimientos utilizados por Suiza y 
Liechtenstein para la administración de contingentes.    WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 24  
 
  21. De acuerdo al Plan de Compensación de Prec ios de Suiza y Liechtenstein los derechos de 
importación NMF que gravan los productos elabora dos o procesados agrícolas, constan de  un 
elemento industrial y un elemento agrícola. El elemen to agrícola es calculado a través de una formula 
normalizada y el elemento industrial es fijado por el Consejo Federal Suizo.  
A partir de lo anterior se tienen las siguientes inquietudes:  
¿Qué productos a nivel de 8 dígitos del arancel  de Suiza están definidos como un producto 
elaborado o procesado? 
¿Qué características especiales y materias prim as específicas tienen estos productos para ser 
clasificados como productos elaborados o procesados?  
Para calcular el elemento agrícola se hace uso de una formula normalizada. Colombia solicita 
una explicación detallada de los componentes de  la formula y conocer cómo se realizan los 
cálculos empleando esta formula normalizada. 
¿Qué parámetros o elementos son utilizados por el Consejo Federal Suizo para determinar el 
componente industrial? 
¿Cada cuanto tiempo varían estos aranceles? 
5) SERVICIOS 
ii) Servicios financieros a) Servicios bancarios y de gestión de fondos Suiza 
81. Suiza es uno de los centros financieros más importantes del mundo y atrae un gran volumen de 
actividad del extranjero.  Ello se debe en gran me dida a la estabilidad política y económica del país, la 
prudente gestión monetaria, la ex istencia de un régimen abierto de  movimiento de capitales, y la 
tradición de secreto bancario.  El franco suizo es qui nta divisa de reserva más importante del mundo.   
Además, debido a los bajos tipos de interés suizos  la emisión de bonos en  francos suizos es una 
opción atractiva incluso para los emisores que no  son suizos.  Suiza tiene un sistema bancario 
universal;  por consiguiente, los bancos dominan también las actividades relacionadas con los valores 
y los fondos de inversión.   La banca privada es, con diferencia, el subsector más importante y Suiza es 
el primer país del mundo en volumen actividades de banca privada transfronteriza.  Al final de 2007, 
los bancos suizos administraban depósitos de clientes, tanto nacionales como internacionales, por un 
valor total de 5.235 mill ones de francos suizos. 
¿El régimen abierto de movimiento de capitales significa la no imposición de controles a los 
flujos de capital?  
¿En caso de presentarse dificultades financieras o de balanza de pagos en la economía suiza, qué 
tipo de medidas adopta el gobierno para contrarrestarlas? 
83. Las actividades bancarias se rigen principalmente por la Ley de Banca y la  Ordenanza Bancaria.   
Para obtener una licencia de la Comisión Federal de  la Banca (SFBC), un banc o debe dar pruebas de 
tener un plan empresarial claramente definido, una organización adecuada, y unos gestores con buena 
reputación;  éstos deben tener su residencia en un lugar que les permita garantizar una "gestión 
responsable".  Las personas físicas o jurídicas que c ontrolen directa o indirectamente el 10 por ciento  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 25 
 
 
  o más del capital o de los derechos de voto, o que ejerzan de otra fo rma una influencia notable en el 
banco (participación cualificada) deben garantizar que su influencia no afectará negativamente a la 
actividad del banco.  Están obligados a hacer una  notificación a la SFBC antes de adquirir o vender 
una participación cualificada o cuando su participaci ón desborde (en más o en menos) el umbral del 
20 por ciento, el 33 por ciento, o el 50 por ciento.  El capital mínimo totalmente desembolsado que se 
exige es de 10 millones de francos suizos. 
¿El requisito de que los gestores de los bancos deben tener su residencia en un lugar que les 
permita garantizar una "gestión responsable", significa que deben residir en el territorio de Suiza o cuál es el alcance de dicha exigencia? 
85. Para establecer todo tipo de sucursales, filiales u oficinas de representación de bancos extranjeros 
en Suiza se requiere una licencia de la SFBC.  El  nombre de un banco extranjero no debe inducir a 
creer que se trata de un banco suizo.  El acceso sigue  estando supeditado a la reciprocidad, excepto en 
los casos en que se aplican obligaciones internacionales,  como los Acuerdos de la OMC.  Además, se 
aplican a los bancos los requisitos generales para el establecimiento de empresas extranjeras en Suiza.  
Una vez establecidos, los bancos de propiedad extran jera gozan de la misma condición que los bancos 
suizos.  La SFBC está facultada para supervisar los establecimientos extran jeros en Suiza, pero 
también autoriza a organismos extranjeros a inspeccionar establecimientos suizos de bancos extranjeros.  Desde 2000, la SFBC también concede licencias para bancos y agentes de valores que 
operan exclusivamente por Internet.  La reglamenta ción es idéntica a la de la s instituciones que tienen 
presencia física, incluso en lo que respecta a las disposiciones de debida diligencia y blanqueo de 
dinero. 
¿Podría Suiza mencionar algunos de los requisi tos generales para el establecimiento de 
empresas extranjeras que también aplican a los bancos? 
87. Los 24 bancos cantonales, que pertenecen total o parcialmente a los cantones, concentran sus 
actividades en la gestión de créditos, depósitos e hipotecas en sus respectivos cantones ;  representan 
más del 30 por ciento de la activid ad de la banca nacional;  21 cantones garantizan las obligaciones de 
sus bancos.  Además, los bancos cantonales obtiene n un trato preferencial en lo que respecta a los 
requisitos de capital y a la fiscalidad.  No obstant e, estas normas especiales se vienen examinando 
desde hace varios años, con el objetivo último de a bolirlas.  La Ley de emisión de bonos hipotecarios 
de 1930 solamente autoriza a dos instituciones a emitir  bonos hipotecarios:  la Central de emisión de 
bonos hipotecarios de los bancos cantonales su izos (Pfandbriefzentrale der schweizerischen 
Kantonalbanken) y el Banco de bonos de garantía de instituciones hipotecarias suizas (Pfandbriefbank 
schweizerischer Hypothekarinstitute ).  Únicamente los bancos cant onales pueden participar en la 
primera, y la participación en la segunda se circunscr ibe a aquellos bancos cuya oficina principal esté 
ubicada en Suiza y cuyos préstamos hipotecarios nacionales representen como mínimo un 60 por ciento de los activos de su balance. 
¿Podría explicar Suiza por qué para los t res bancos cantonales restantes los cantones no 
garantizan las obligaciones de sus bancos? 
¿Se tiene prevista una fecha determinada para abolir las normas especiales que tienen los 
bancos cantonales? 
Liechtenstein 
101. La Ley sobre diligencia debida, modificada, y la correspondiente ordenanza son los principales 
instrumentos jurídicos para prevenir y luchar c ontra el blanqueo de dinero y la financiación del 
terrorismo.  La diligencia debida a los clientes cons iste principalmente en la obligación de elaborar y 
mantener un perfil de cada cliente, que incluya info rmación sobre la propiedad efectiva, el origen de WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 26  
 
  los fondos y la finalidad de la relación mercantil.  Se gún el FMI, "tanto el blanqueo de dinero como la 
financiación del terrorismo están sancionados penalmen te de manera amplia (aunque no integral), en 
línea con las normas internacionales". 
¿Podría Liechtenstein explicar a qué se refiere cu ando afirma que tanto el blanqueo de dinero 
como la financiación del terrorismo están sancio nados penalmente de manera amplia aunque no 
integral? 
iii) Telecomunicaciones a) Suiza 
127. Los proveedores de servicios de telecomunicaci ones deben garantizar la transferibilidad de los 
números y la libertad de elección de proveedores de  conexiones nacionales e internacionales.  Con 
arreglo al régimen de interconexión de Suiza, los proveedores interesados en concertar un contrato de 
interconexión deben negociar ante  todo las condiciones.  Si las negociaciones no han permitido llegar 
a un acuerdo en un plazo de tres meses, las partes pueden recurrir a la Comcom, que resuelve la diferencia y establece las condiciones de interc onexión atendiendo a las recomendaciones de la 
OFCOM.  La LTC dispone que los precios de in terconexión deben basarse en el costo solamente 
cuando exista posición dominante en el mercado;  cuando no exista deben basarse en las normas del 
mercado.  En este último caso, sólo se puede interpon er recurso ante la Comcom para garantizar la 
interoperabilidad de los servicios que forman pa rte del servicio universal.  La ley no prohíbe la 
subvención cruzada de los servicios de telecomunicaciones.  
129. Una enmienda introducida en la LTC, que abre el camino a la liberalización del "último tramo", 
entró en vigor en abril de 2007.  La desagregaci ón del bucle local debe lograrse ofreciendo a los 
proveedores de la competencia dos opciones para tener acceso a ese último tramo.  La primera 
consiste en que el proveedor pueda utilizar sus propias instalaciones de banda ancha y otros servicios 
en los locales del proveedor dominante.  El cable de  cobre entre el cliente y el centro de conexión del 
proveedor dominante se conecta simplemente al nuevo proveedor, que presta sus servicios exclusivamente al cliente en cuestión (desagregaci ón completa).  La segunda opción consiste en que 
el proveedor de la competencia pueda ofrecer servicios por banda ancha utilizando el equipo del 
proveedor dominante durante un período máximo de cuatro años, durante los cuales este último 
prestará los demás servicios.  A lo largo de esos cuatro años, el proveedor de la competencia deberá instalar el equipo necesario para poder prestar los dem ás servicios (acceso indirecto, o bitstream).  En 
ambos casos, los proveedores competidores y el dominante negocian libremente los precios.
70  E n  
caso de desacuerdo, la Comcom fija un precio basado en los costos.71 
133. En los casos relacionados con los servicio s de telecomunicaciones, la Comisión de la 
Competencia trabaja en estrecha colaboración con la OFCOM y la Comcom (capítulo III 4) iii)).  La 
Comcom examina cada caso de posición dominante en el mercado en el marco de los procedimientos 
de interconexión.  En febrero de 2007, la Co misión de la Competencia determinó que Swisscom 
Mobile había abusado de su posición de dominio en el mercado y le impuso una multa de más de 
                                                      
70 Aunque la enmienda a la LTC se basa en gran medi da en el marco jurídico de las CE, la disposición 
por la que se da primacía a las negociaciones es contraria a la legislación comunitaria. 
71 La Comcom está evaluando en agosto de 2008 el precio de la desagregación del bucle local (primera 
opción);  se espera que adopte una decisión en el ot oño de 2008.  La puesta en  práctica del acceso bitstream 
(segunda opción) está bloqueada debido a que no se han resuelto los procedimientos judiciales al respecto.  La 
Comcom decidió en otoño de 2007 que Swisscom es el proveedor dominante en lo que respecta al acceso 
bitstream, pero dicha empresa interpuso un recurso contra esa d ecisión.  El caso está pe ndiente de resolución por 
el Tribunal Administrativo Federal.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 27 
 
 
  333 millones de francos suizos72, y en septiembre de 2007 dictaminó que Swisscom había abusado de 
su posición dominante en el ámbito del acceso por banda ancha a Internet. 
De acuerdo con la última línea  del párrafo 127, la Ley de Telecomunicaci ones de Suiza no prohíbe 
subvención cruzada de los servicios de telecomuni caciones.  De conformidad con los compromisos 
adquiridos por Suiza en el marco del GATS (doc umento GATS/SC/83/Suppl.3 del 11 de abril de 
1997) en materia de salvaguardias a la competencia,  Suiza  mantendrá medidas adecuadas con el fin 
de impedir que aquellos proveedores que, individual  o conjuntamente, sean un proveedor importante 
empleen o sigan empleando prácticas anticompetitivas. Dichas prácticas entre otras, se refieren a realizar actividades competitivas de subvención cruzada. 
Teniendo en cuenta que el pie de  pagina del párrafo 129, menci ona que "La Comcom decidió en 
otoño de 2007 que Swisscom es el proveedor dominante  en lo que respecta al acceso bitstream, pero 
dicha empresa interpuso un recurso contra esa decisión." Y adicionalmente que según la segunda 
parte del párrafo 133, la Comisión de la Competen cia determinó que en febrero de 2007, Swisscom 
Mobile había abusado de su posición de dominio en el mercado y le impuso una multa de más de 
333 millones de francos suizos
*, y en septiembre de 2007 dictaminó que Swisscom había abusado de 
su posición dominante en el ámbito del acceso por  banda ancha a Internet, Colombia se permite 
formular las siguientes preguntas: 
Si la ley de telecomunicaciones no prohíbe la subvención cruzada de los servicios de 
telecomunicaciones, ¿cuáles son las medidas que ha tomado Suiza para cumplir con el 
compromiso adquirido en el marco de la OM C de impedir las prácticas anticompetitivas, 
particularmente aquellas relaciona das con los subsidios cruzados? 
¿Existe en la regulación Suiza obligaciones di rigidas específicamente al proveedor dominante 
que prevengan e impidan prácticas de abuso de la posición de dominio por parte de Swisscom 
como las mencionadas en la última parte del párrafo 133?  
MÉXICO   
TEMAS DE SERVICIOS   
Se solicita a Suiza y a Liechtenstein responder a las siguientes preguntas formuladas con base en lo 
señalado en el documento WT/TPR /G/208 del 10 de noviembre de 2008. 
IV.  POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES POR SECTORES  /  5) Servicios  /  i) Servicios de construcción     
1. En el párrafo 73 se indica que varias profesiones de  este subsector siguen siendo reguladas a nivel 
cantonal;  en el pasado, han existido un número b astante elevado de acuerdos restrictivos y otras 
prácticas anticompetitivas entre proveedores que li mitaban la entrada de nuevos proveedores, 
especialmente extranjeros;  y los límites a la concesión de permisos de trabajo para empleados 
extranjeros reducen la competitivid ad en este subsector de gran intensidad de mano de obra.  En 
conjunto, estos factores han contribuido a que lo s costos de la construcción sean elevados en 
comparación con los de otros países.  El párrafo  señalado hace referencia al pasado por lo que 
México desearía saber si los acuerdos restri ctivos y otras prácticas anticompetitivas son menos 
estrictas actualmente. 
                                                      
72 La resolución definitiva está pendiente de adopción (junio de 2008), ya que Swisscom Mobile 
presentó una reclamación ante el Tribunal Federal. 
* La resolución definitiva está pendiente de adopción (junio de 2008), ya que Swisscom Mobile 
presentó una reclamación ante el Tribunal Federal . WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 28  
 
  IV. POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES, POR SECTORES  /  5) Servicios  /  ii) Servicios financieros   /  
a) Servicios bancarios y de gestión de fondos  /  b) Seguros 
2. En el párrafo 85 se menciona que para establece r todo tipo de sucursales, filiales u oficinas de 
representación de bancos extranjeros en Suiza se requiere una licencia de la Comisión Federal de 
la Banca (SFBC).  Asimismo, se indica que se aplican a los bancos los requisitos generales para el 
establecimiento de empresas extranjeras en Sui za. México desea conocer con mayor detalle los 
requisitos para obtener una licencia de la SFB C y sobre los requisitos generales para el 
establecimiento de empresas extranjeras en Suiza. 
3. En el párrafo 106 se señala que las compañías ex tranjeras que en Suiza se dedican únicamente a 
los reaseguros están exentas de la aprobación de la Oficina Federal de Seguros Privados (FOPI) 
para iniciar sus actividades, y no están sujetas a su aprobación, sino que son supervisadas por las 
autoridades de sus países de origen. Asimismo se indica que cada categoría de seguro requiere una autorización especial. México desearía saber cu áles son los requisitos para que una compañía 
extranjera de reaseguros se establezca en Suiza. 
IV. POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES, POR SECTORES  /  5) Servicios  / iii) Telecomunicaciones   /  
a) Suiza  /  b) Liechtenstein 
4. En el párrafo 124 se indica que en abril de 2007,  el requisito general de  la obtención de una 
licencia para los proveedores de servicios de te lecomunicaciones fue sustituido por la obligación 
general de inscribirse en el registro.  Sin embar go, el uso del espectro sigue supeditado a la 
obtención de una licencia. México desearía saber si existen compañías extranjeras en Suiza que 
proporcionen los servicios de telecomunicaciones y, en su caso, quisiéra mos saber si existen 
requisitos adicionales para dichas empresas extranjeras. 
5. En el párrafo 134 se menciona que en virtud de la nueva Ley sobre Comunicaciones, que entró en 
vigor en junio de 2006 en Liechtenstein, se abolió  el régimen de licencias.  Todas las actividades 
en la esfera de las comunicaciones electrónicas están libres de licencia, pero deben notificarse a la Oficina de Comunicaciones de Liechtenstein, la  autoridad reglamentaria nacional. México 
desearía saber si dichas disposiciones se ap lican también a empresas extranjeras. 
6. En el párrafo 136 se indica que en un estudio sobre el mercado de la telefonía móvil en 
Liechtenstein encargado por la Oficina de Co municaciones en 2007 se llegó a la conclusión de 
que la competencia era insuficiente, puesto que lo s obstáculos a la entrada eran importantes y las 
empresas establecidas tenían un poder de mercado not able, todo lo cual propiciaba que los precios 
fueran más elevados de lo necesario. México d esea saber si en Liechtenstein existen compañías 
extranjeras que presten los servicios de telefonía móvil. 
IV. POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES, POR SECTORES  /  5)  Servicios  / iv) Servicios postales  /  
a) Suiza 
7. En el párrafo 138 se señala que los servicios pos tales no reservados, que también pueden prestar 
operadores privados con licencia, comprenden los envíos postales internacionales de salida de 
cartas y todos los servicios postales (nacionales e internacionales) de paquetes de hasta 20 kg de 
peso. Desearíamos saber si los servicios postales no reservados  pueden ser proporcionados por empresas extranjeras.   
8. En el mismo párrafo 138 se indica que todos los demás servicios, los liberalizados, pueden ser 
suministrados libremente por proveedores privados , incluso extranjeros, y no están sujetos a 
derechos de monopolio ni al régimen de licen cias.  México desearía saber qué actividades 
comprenden dichos servicios.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 29 
 
 
  IV. POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES, POR SECTORES  /  5) Servicios  /  vi)  Turismo  /  a) Suiza  
9. En el párrafo 164 se señala que la legislación cant onal sobre guías turísticos ha sido revisada y se 
han abierto las pruebas exigidas a los extr anjeros, quienes pueden operar de manera 
independiente. Podrían indicarnos cuáles son la s pruebas exigidas que se han abierto a los 
extranjeros.  
IV. POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES, POR SECTORES  /  5) Servicios  /  vii)  Servicios 
profesionales  /  b)  Servicios de contabilidad y auditoría  /  Suiza 
10. En el párrafo 184 se indica que la Ley Federal sobre Licencias y Supervis ión de los Auditores 
(AOA), que entró en vigor en septiembre de 2007, abolió el sistema de reglamentación autónoma 
al establecer el Organismo Federal de Supervis ión de las Auditorías (FAOA), que se encarga de 
acreditar a los auditores.  Dicha ley estipula lo s requisitos para la acreditación, es decir, la 
posesión de un título de auditor expedido en Sui za o una combinación de estudios universitarios y 
experiencia práctica. México desearía saber si  estas medidas se aplican también a extranjeros 
IV. POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES, POR SECTORES  /  5) Servicios  /  vii)  Servicios 
profesionales  /  c)  Servicios de ingeniería y arquitectura  /  Suiza 
11. En el párrafo 194 se menciona que denominacion es profesionales como "arquitecto", "ingeniero" 
o "técnico" no están protegidas jurídicamente en la mayoría de los cantones, por lo que no es 
necesario obtener una licencia para ejercer estas profesiones.  Cualquier persona, tanto de nacionalidad suiza como extranjera, puede ejer cerlas. México desearía saber cuáles son los 
requisitos para que un extranjero pueda ejercer esas profesiones. 
TEMAS DE NORMAS TÉCNICAS 
Se solicita a Suiza y a Liechtenstein responder a las siguientes preguntas formuladas con base en lo 
señalado en el documento WT/TPR /S/208 del 10 de noviembre de 2008. 
12. En el párrafo 71 se menciona que la ley suiza regula otros Reglamentos: ¿Nos podría mencionar 
qué otros Reglamentos Técnicos son los que regula?   Si las normas técnicas no son iniciadas por 
el gobierno ¿se deja esta actividad en manos de l sector privado y el gobierno sólo revisa el 
resultado final  desde la esfera de la LETC? ¿I nterviene el gobierno o sanciona en alguna otra 
etapa? 
13. Párrafo 73.  ¿Cómo es el proceso de la Evaluación de la Conformidad? ¿Por qué únicamente los 
reglamentos son revisados por el Parlamento cuando hay un interés público? ¿Existe un criterio 
económico para discriminar la re visión de reglamentos por parte del Parlamento y cuál sería? 
14. Párrafo 76.  ¿Cuál es el mecanismo para otor gar el reconocimiento cuando los reglamentos 
técnicos de ambas part es no son equivalentes? 
15. Párrafo 80.  Ante la decisión de no tener control es aduanales para verificar el cumplimiento de 
reglamentos técnicos, ¿Cuál es el esquema para verificar la correcta operación de los instrumentos de medición en campo? ¿Cómo se lleva el regist ro de todos los instrumentos de medición que 
ingresan a Suiza? 
16. Párrafo 82.  ¿Cómo verifican la veracidad de la información señalada en el etiquetado? ¿Cuál es el 
esquema para determinar el cont enido neto de los productos? WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 30  
 
  Sección (2) Esferas de política exterior   
iii)  Cooperación con los países en desarrollo y las economías en  transición   
d)  Sostenibilidad de las exportaciones (párrafo 80)  
• Considerando que la sustentabilidad es un obj etivo trasversal; ¿Qué instrumento de política 
comercial tienen incorporadas medidas para fomentar  la transferencia de tecnologías inocuas para 
el medio ambiente? 
• ¿Qué instrumento de política económica, comercia l o de desarrollo tienen incorporadas medidas 
para inducir a las empresas a adoptar las normas fundamentales del trabajo y de los derechos 
humanos? 
• ¿Qué instrumento de política económica, comercia l o de desarrollo tienen incorporadas medidas 
para propiciar la fabricación de productos de exportación con métodos sostenibles y, 
especialmente en el sector agrícola, la certifi cación biológica y las prácticas agrícolas adecuadas? 
• ¿Qué instrumento de política económica, comercia l o de desarrollo tienen incorporadas medidas 
para propiciar la fabricación de productos de exportación con métodos sostenibles y, 
especialmente en el sector agrícola, la certifi cación biológica y las prácticas agrícolas adecuadas? 
• ¿Qué instrumento de política económica, comercia l o de desarrollo tienen incorporadas medidas 
para propiciar el acceso a los recursos genéticos  y reparto equitativo de los beneficios obtenidos 
mediante la explotación de esos recursos, los conocimientos tradicionales y las indicaciones 
geográficas? 
• Con relación a la política nacional en materia de  Cambio Climático, en particular de sus 
programas de producción, intercambi o de derechos de emisión de CO
2 y el fortalecimiento de las 
instituciones a través de sus proyectos experiment ales ¿Cuántos años lle van instrumentando estos 
programas experimentales; ¿cuáles han sido los impactos comerciales y económicos en los 
sectores industriales involucrados? 
vii) Otras prioridades de la política exterior a) Medio ambiente (párrafo 89) 
• En materia de medio ambiente, incluidos los re siduos peligrosos, los productos químicos tóxicos, 
los biocidas y las sustancias que destruyen la  capa de ozono.  ¿Con cuántos países tienen 
mecanismos de promoción y la transf erencia de tecnologías ambientales?  
• Con relación al plan nacional de Suiza sobre medi das sobre el tema de la diversidad biológica 
derivadas del Convenio sobre la Diversidad Biol ógica, ¿Suiza cuenta con un trabajo avanzado al 
respecto para construir un informe similar al informe "Stern"? 
• Sírvanse proporcionar, en la medida de lo posible , una evaluación de las implicaciones de dicho 
trabajo en términos de costos y beneficios para  Suiza.  ¿Que medidas de mitigación han sido o 
deberían ser adoptadas por Suiza?  
• ¿En qué medida dicho plan nacional limita la  discrecionalidad de las autoridades suizas en 
materia de políticas medio ambientales sobr e las políticas comerciales y/o viceversa?  
SEPARATE CUSTOMS  TERRITORY OF TAIWAN, PENGHU, KINMEN, AND  MATSU  
Reports WT/TPR/G/208 and WT/TPR/S/208   
(WT/TPR/G/208 page 6, paragraph 10; page 21 , paragraph 71 & page 40, paragraph 48, and 
WT/TPR/S/208 page 25, paragraphs 31 & 32) 
As the reports indicate, as a complement to its commitment to liberalization through the multilateral 
trading system, Switzerland intends to constitute its network of free trade agreements (FTAs), most of 
which were signed within the EFTA framework.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 31 
 
 
  Could we please be informed of Switzerland's reasons for signing an FTA with Japan at a bilateral 
level? 
It is our understanding that  agreements on trade in goods and customs treaties concluded by 
Switzerland with third parties apply to Liechtens tein as well, under the Switzerland-Liechtenstein 
Customs Union Treaty.   
Could Switzerland please confirm whether the above-mentioned FTA will also apply to Liechtenstein?  
Reports by Switzerland and Liechtenstein (WT/TPR/G/208)  
SWITZERLAND  
II. ECONOMIC  ENVIRONMENT  
(1) ECONOMIC AND MACROECONOMIC POLICY DEVELOPMENTS 
(v)  Economic outlook and risks (page 13, paragraph 34) 
The report suggests that, despite a noticeable decline, Switzerland's GDP should continue to grow in 
2008 and 2009… Current forecasts are for growth of  1.9 per cent in 2008, but only 1.3 per cent in 
2009.  
Latest forecasts from the EIU and Global Insight  Inc., however, both anticipate a negative economic 
growth rate for Switzerland in 2009. We have al so noticed that the government of Switzerland has 
taken measures aimed at stabilizing the situation in  the financial sector, a nd the Swiss National Bank 
(SNB) has cut interest rates three times since October.  
(i) We are interested in knowing whether th e government of Switzerland is planning any 
macroeconomic stimulus programme to  help weather the upcoming recession? 
(ii) If so, what would be its main features, economic tools and budget structure? 
(iii) Would employment be an issue that also features in any stimulus plan, and is the social safety net 
sufficient to deal with the consequences of  the expected considerable deceleration in the 
economy? 
III. MAIN FOCUS OF RECENT AND CURRENT STRUCTURAL REFORMS OTHER 
 PRIORITIES OF SWITZERLAND'S ECONOMIC POLICY (1) DOMESTIC POLICY AREAS (i)   Agricultural policy 2011 (page 15, paragraph 42) 
The concept of direct payments having proved it s worth, it remains at the heart of the future 
agricultural policy… A report will be submitted to Parliament in 2009.  
Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein please provide further details of the differences between the 
future and the former 'direct payments' policies? 
Report by the WTO Secr etariat (WT/TPR/S/208) 
 
III. TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE 
(4) MEASURES AFFECTING PRODUCTION  AND TRADE  
(i) Incentives and other assistance 
(page 71, paragraph 133) 
Domestic producers of high-protein peas, field beans and fibre plant receive a subsidy from the Swiss 
government proportionate to the area under cultivation. Moreover, there are two different types of WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 32  
 
  subsidy for oilseeds (e.g. rapeseed, sunflower seed, and soybeans): direct payments to the producer, 
which are proportionate to the area under cultivation (S w F 1,500 per hectare); and direct payments to 
the processing plants producing oil for human cons umption and for other uses. On 1 January 2009, 
these subsidies will be reduced to Sw F 1,000 per hect are) for fibre plants, field beans, rape seeds, and 
other field products.  
Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein please provide mo re details of their subsidy policy for oil seeds 
processing plants?  
(ii) State trading and State-owned enterprises 
(page 74, paragraph 139) 
Switzerland still has some State-owned public utility and public livelihood industries, such as, Salt, 
Electricity production and supply, Electricity transmission, Water and Gas.  
Will these industries remain State-owned or will they be privatized in the future?  
IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR 
(1) INTRODUCTION  
(page 90, paragraph 4) 
Switzerland has adopted a new electricity law, whic h provides for partial liberalization of the Swiss 
electricity market as of 2009, and for full liberalization as of 2014.  
(i) Does full liberalization include electricity privatization?  
(ii) Liechtenstein's electricity market has been lib eralized since 2005. Are there any plans for 
electricity privatization? 
(3)    ENERGY 
(iii)   Natural Gas 
(page 103, paragraph 50) 
Natural gas prices in Switzerland are set directly by  local authorities or subject to their approval. 
(i) Is there any operational mechanism in pla ce which determines when the local authorities 
formulate the prices?   
(ii) What are the main concerns regarding the price-setting? 
(IV)   ELECTRICITY  
(page 104, paragraph 55) 
The Swiss Electricity Law established an independent Electricity Commission (ElCom), which has 
the power to order decreases or prohibit increases of transmission tariffs or consumer prices if it 
considers them inappropriate. 
(iii) Are there any criteria applied as to when the ElCom judges transmission tariffs or consumer 
prices inappropriate?   
(iv) What are the reasons for the Swiss government decreasing or prohibiting increases of the prices? 
(page 104, paragraph 57) 
Independent power producers (IPPs) in Liechtenste in may sell electricity to any customer; the 
transmission fee payable to LKW is subject to a pproval by the Energy Commission. Nonetheless, no 
IPPs have yet entered the market.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 33 
 
 
  Given that the fairness and reasonableness of the trans mission infrastructure is likely to influence 
investors' willingness to invest in an IPP, we woul d appreciate knowing more about the nature of the 
Energy Commission's concerns when determin ing the level of the transmission fee. 
PERÚ  WT/TPR/G/208
 
• Párrafo 83: Explicar qué quiere decir que "la nueva Le y de Aduanas facilita la ejecución de 
disposiciones legislativas de la Confederación distintas de las aduaneras". Si es necesario, precisar con algún ejemplo. 
• Párrafo 84: Suiza informa que no ha adoptado el Ane xo H del Convenio de Kyoto por que este 
no se corresponde con el derecho suizo. En ese contexto, ¿cuál seria el sentido de la no 
correspondencia con el derecho su izo si nos referimos a la definición de "infracción aduanera" y 
"la presentación de garantía para levantar un embargo o retención"? 
W T/TPR/S/208 
 
IV. Políticas Comerciales, por Sectores 
5) Servicios 
• Párrafo 69:  Dado que la presencia de personas físicas es una modalidad de interés para los 
Miembros en vías de desarrollo y que el Art. 1V  del GATS contempla que se debe facilitar la 
participación de los países en desarrollo miembros mediante, entre otros, la liberalización del acceso a mercados en los sectores y modos de su ministro de interés para sus exportaciones, 
¿Suiza está considerando la posibilid ad de ampliar sus compromisos en modo 4 en particular en la 
categoría de profesionales independientes y/o consolidar sus medidas? 
• Párrafo 73:  ¿Existe alguna iniciativa normativa interna pa ra flexibilizar los límites a la concesión 
de permisos de trabajo pa ra empleados extranjeros? 
• Párrafo 89:  ¿Qué servicios financieros no requieren obtener una licencia en Suiza? 
• Párrafo 106:  Con respecto a la existencia de un monopo lio público sobre los seguros de incendio 
y de daños por causas naturales (a los edificio s) en 19 cantones, ¿la restricción es para las 
empresas de seguros instaladas en esos cantones o es una prohibición de esos cantones a adquirir 
seguros contra incendios de empresas instaladas en otros cantones? 
• Párrafo 124:  El Documento menciona que "el requisito  general de la obten ción de una licencia 
para los proveedores de servicios de telecom unicaciones fue sustituido por la obligación general 
de inscribirse en el registro", ¿los requisitos que se exigen para la inscripción en el registro son los 
mismos que aquellos para la obtención de una licencia? 
• Párrafo 127:  ¿La subvención cruzada ocurre en algún sub-sector de Telecomunicaciones 
actualmente? 
• Párrafo 145:  ¿Cuál es el porcentaje de participación Su iza requerido para que se considere a la 
empresa como "establecida en Suiza"? 
• Párrafo 172:  ¿En qué consiste el "criterio de la n ecesidad del mercado de trabajo"? ¿Cómo se 
determina? WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 34  
 
  • Párrafo 173:  ¿Cuáles son los pasos necesarios a seguir para  lograr el reconocimiento de un título 
profesional? 
CANADA  
Reports by Switzerland and Liechtenstein (WT/TPR/G/208) 
 
Switzerland: 
Part III. Main Focus of Recent and Current Structural Reforms and Other Priorities of 
Switzerland's Economic Policy; (viii) Inte llectual Property: paragraph 60, page 19: 
The Report by Switzerland notes that recent amendments  to the Federal Law on Patents were made to 
bring appropriate protection for biotec hnological inventions through patents. 
1. Canada would appreciate if Switzerland could provi de further information on the nature of these 
amendments.   
Part III. Main Focus of Recent and Current Structural Reforms and Other Priorities of 
Switzerland's Economic Policy; (viii) Inte llectual Property: paragraph 60, page 19: 
The Report by Switzerland also notes that recent amendments to the Federal Law on Patents were 
made to implement, "the WTO Resolution on im proving the availability of pharmaceuticals in 
developing countries."  
2. Could Switzerland please provide further details c oncerning the new legislative and/or regulatory 
framework in place to facilitate developing countries' access to pharmaceutical products? 
Part III. Main Focus of Recent and Current Structural Reforms and Other Priorities of 
Switzerland's Economic Policy; (viii) Inte llectual Property: paragraph 61, page 19: 
The Report by Switzerland states that with respect to  copyright, "the restriction allowing use of works 
for private purposes has been revised."  
3. Canada would be grateful for further details on this amendment to the Federal Law on Copyright.  
Report by the Secretariat (WT/TPR/S/208)  
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (4)  Measures Affecting Production and 
Trade; (vi) Intellectual Property Rights: paragraph 168, page 84: 
The Report by the Secretariat provides that patentab ility criteria such as novelty and inventive step are 
not examined by the Swiss Federal Institute of Inte llectual Property, but that they are requirements in 
all technical fields and are legally contestable. 
4. Canada would appreciate Switzerland's and Liechtenstein's views as to whether these practices 
have a significant effect on the work of patent examiners and courts/boards, and on whether these 
have an appreciable effect on the quality of patents granted in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. 
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (4)  Measures Affecting Production and 
Trade; (vi) Intellectual Property Rights: paragraph 169, page 84: 
The Report by the Secretariat provides that interested  parties may apply for a compulsory licence if an 
inventor has not made sufficient use of the inventi on within the country three years after the patent 
has been granted or four years following the date of the patent application.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 35 
 
 
  5. Canada would be grateful if Switzerland and Li echtenstein could clarify if there are other 
grounds on which compulsory licences may be granted in Switzerland and Liechtenstein.  
Switzerland specific questions: 
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (2) Measures Directly Affecting Imports; 
(x) Standards and other technical requirement s; (b) Labelling, marking, and packaging: 
paragraph 82, page 59: 
Paragraph 82 of the Secretariat Report notes that im ports of meat produced in a manner prohibited in 
Switzerland must be labelled accordingly. 
6. Could Switzerland provide the rationale for these labelling requirements and explain the 
legitimate objective these requirements aim to achieve? 
7. Could Switzerland please explain how these requirements are consistent with the WTO TBT 
Agreement? 
Specific to the mandatory labelling for eggs produced by the rearing of hens in battery cages: 
8. Could Switzerland please clarify the legitimat e objective, under TBT Article 2.2, that 
Switzerland seeks to achieve through the mandatory labelling for eggs produced by the rearing of 
hens in battery cages, and provide available scientific and technical information that 
demonstrates how this measure addresses this objective? 
9. Could Switzerland detail the risks that non -fulfilment of this measure would pose? 
10. Could Switzerland indicate whether or not a subs idy is provided to promote free ranged poultry 
production in Switzerland? 
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (2) Measures Directly Affecting Imports; 
(x) Standards and other technical requirements;  (c) Sanitary and phytosanitary measures: 
paragraph 93, page 63:  
11. Could Switzerland provide rationale for the leg itimate objective their policy regarding the 
labelling of GMO products aims to achieve? 
12. Could Switzerland please explain how the policy regarding genetically modified products 
conforms to Swiss international commitments in removing technical barriers to trade? 
13. Could Switzerland outline the steps that are nece ssary for a GMO to be authorized for use and 
commercialization in Switzerland (for food, feed and processing)? 
14. Could Switzerland indicate which government department is the national competent authority 
that is responsible for the authorization of GMOs? 
15. Could Switzerland provide a list of what GMOs ha ve been authorized fo r use by the competent 
authority? 
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (2) Measures Directly Affecting Imports; 
(x) Standards and other technical requirements;  (c) Sanitary and phytosanitary measures: 
paragraph 94, page 63: 
Paragraph 94 of the Secretariat Report notes that im ports of meat produced in a manner prohibited in 
Switzerland must be labelled accordingly.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 36  
 
  16. Could Switzerland provide the rationale for th ese labelling requirements and explain how these 
requirements aim to protect human health or safety? 
17. Could Switzerland please explain how these requirements are consistent with the WTO SPS 
Agreement? 
Specific to the mandatory labelling for eggs produced by the rearing of hens in battery cages which is 
repeated under SPS measures. Canada notes that th is banned production method was also notified to 
the WTO as a SPS measure (G/SPS/N/CHE/15). 
18. Canada would like Switzerland to c onfirm whether or not they consider this to be a SPS measure 
and if so to clarify what risk to huma n or animal health it intends to address? 
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (2) Measures Directly Affecting Imports; 
(xi) Government Procurement: paragraph 100, page 64: 
The Secretariat Report states that the GPA is in tegrated into the 1994 Federal Law and its 1995 
Ordinance, which establishes detailed rules for procurement below and above GPA thresholds.  
19. Could Switzerland please provide the website links that  allows suppliers to view all such detailed 
rules and all other directives, regulations, or gui delines applied by procurement authorities at all 
levels of government? 
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (2) Measures Directly Affecting Imports; 
(xi) Government Procurement: paragraph 104, page 65: 
The Secretariat Report indicates that, "neither th e law nor the ordinance provide for preferential 
treatment for Swiss suppliers." 
20. Could Switzerland please explain if this is the case for procurements that are both above and 
below relevant GPA thresholds and for all entities,  regardless of whether they are covered in the 
GPA? 
21. Does Switzerland have any promotion or protec tion measures for its suppliers in government 
procurement?  
22. Please explain in detail all such measures and pr ovide the links to websites with detail on those 
measures.  
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (4)
 Measures Affecting Production and 
Trade; (vi) Intellectual Property Rights: paragrapgh 175 (footnote 184), page 85: 
Footnote 184 states that illegal signs ar e excluded from trade mark protection.  
23. Could Switzerland please explain what may be considered as an illegal sign (an example would 
be appreciated) under Swiss law and what considera tions the Institute takes into account in order 
to conclude that a sign is ille gal and therefore unregistrable? 
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (4)  Measures Affecting Production and 
Trade; (vi) Intellectual Property Rights: paragraph 179, page 86: 
Paragraph 179 observes that agricultural products can be entered into the federal register for protected 
denominations of origin (PDOs) and prot ected geographical indications (PGIs).   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 37 
 
 
  24. What are the advantages associated with the registration of PDOs and PGIs? 
25. Does registration confer more extensive rights in r espect of the items registered therein than to 
those that are not registered? 
26. Which criteria have to be met in order for a PDO or a PGI to be entered on the register? 
27. What are, if any, the circumstances or criteria under which a PDO or a PGI may be 
unregistrable? 
Part IV. Trade Policies by Sector; (5) Services; (vi) Tourism, (a) Switzerland: paragraph 165, 
page 129: 
The Report states that the Swiss Society for Hote l Credit provides sub-prime loans to small and 
medium-sized companies investing in tourist areas.  
28. Could Switzerland please confirm if foreign investors are eligible for such loans? 
IV. Trade Policies by Sector; (5) Services; (vii)  Professional Services: paragraph 184, page 123:  
Paragraph 184 indicates that applicants with fore ign educations who are seeking registration as 
auditors must, "demonstrate the re quired knowledge of Swiss law."  
29. What are the procedures required for demonstrating the required knowledge? 
Lichtenstein specific questions: Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (2) Measures Directly Affecting Imports; 
(xi) Government Procurement: paragraph 104, page 65: 
The Secretariat Report identifies two laws that apply to public purchases in Liechtenstein.  
30. Please explain how those laws are implemented, and if there are further detailed rules, directives, 
regulations or guidelines that the procuring au thorities follow when conducting procurement.  
31. Could Liechtenstein please provide the website links  that allows suppliers to view those rules, 
directives, regulations or guidelines? 
Part IV. Trade Policies by Sector; (5) Services;  (vii) Professional services: paragraphs 179-182, 
pages 131 and 132: 
Paragraph 179 indicates that Liechtenstein has,  "no restrictions on cross-border supply and 
consumption abroad of legal consultancy services." While paragraphs 180-182 provide information on 
Liechtenstein's requirements for the practice of law and holding the title of lawyer, no further 
information is provided regarding measures regulati ng the provision of legal consultancy services.  
32. Canada would like to know if there are measures that regulate the supply of legal consultancy 
services. If so, can Liechtenstein indicate what those measures? 
INDIA  
1. It is learnt that the limits on the number of work  permits issued by Switzerland has been removed. 
However, the limitation on residency and work permit  in NT still remain. India would like to be 
informed about the latest position in this rega rd along with the details of the limitations. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 38  
 
  2. India would like to be informed about the present status of the policy which was under 
consideration in 2005 with  regard to Independent Professionals under Mode 4. 
3. As per the Foreign Nationals Act only a lim ited number of well-qualified professionals are 
admitted from non-EU/EFTA countries, with the qu otas being determined by the Federal Council 
on an annual basis. Thus, only a limited number of  management level employees, specialists and 
other qualified employees are admitted from othe r countries. Further, non-EU/EFTA nationals 
may only be admitted if a person cannot be recr uited from the labour market of Switzerland or 
another EU/EFTA member state. What is the numeri cal ceiling in this regard and the basis of the 
quota? Further India would like to be informed about the basis of determination of quotas; whether on the basis of professions or nationality or other criteria along with the actual break-up 
of the quota for each such criterion. 
4. In response to question raised by Costa Rica on Construction Services during the last TPR it was 
informed by Switzerland that, "... four factors, which were inhibiting competition in the construction sector: Standards and technical re gulations, regulation of professional services, 
restrictive arrangements and limitations regarding th e employment of foreign workers. In all four 
areas corrective measures have been or are about to be implemented." India would like to be 
informed about the present status of the corrective measures taken in this regard. 
5. In response to a question raised by Hong Kong China on Construction Services during the last 
TPR it was informed by Switzerland that review of restriction under National Treatment column 
regarding Mode 4 is und er consideration. India would like to be informed about the present 
position in this regard. Further, would Switzer land be taking commitments as per the present 
position in its GATS schedule? 
6. Many of the tariff lines of Switzerland have non Ad valorem components. These include 
composite, specific and seasonal tariff lines. Wh ether any conversion guidelines to Ad-valorem 
tariffs are available for such lines? What are Sw itzerland's plans to switch to Ad-valorem tariffs 
on these lines?" 
7. Out of the  total agricultural tariff lines, India w ould like to be informed about the exact numbers 
which are having purely Ad valorem tariffs, Composite tariffs, Specific tariffs and Seasonal tariffs. 
8. India would like to know the extent of use of SSG provisions by Switzerland. 
9. What are Switzerland's domestic support programme s for farmers/agricultural products? What  is 
the total financial outlay for such domestic support programmes, both in absolute term and as  the 
percentage of GDP? 
THAILAND 
WTO Secretariat Report (WT/TPR/S/208) III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measures 
(3) Measures Directly Affecting  Exports  
(v) Export Subsidies 
Paragraph 120, page 68 
1. Could Switzerland please elaborate more on how the Price Compensation Mechanism works?   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 39 
 
 
  2. Could Switzerland please identify its most recent WTO notification of the Price 
Compensation Mechanism?  Please provide details  on any changes to the Price Compensation 
Mechanism since the most recent notification.  
3. How is the Price Compensation Mechanism rela ted to Switzerland's export subsidies, and 
how is it calculated under Switzerla nd's export subsidies scheme? 
4. As export subsidies for basic agricultural products  are to be phased out by January 2010, will 
Switzerland phase out the Price Compensation Mechanism by 2010? 
   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 41 
 
 
  ADDITIONAL ADVANCE WRITTEN QUESTIONS 
ECUADOR  
INFORME DE LA  SECRETARÍA WT/TPR/S/208  
I. EL ENTORNO ECONÓMICO 
2) EVOLUCIÓN ECONÓMICA  RECIENTE  
El párrafo 17 señala que Suiza, a fin de reducir las diferencias financieras entre las comunas, a partir 
del 1º de enero de 2008 introdujo la  "reforma de la organización de la compensación financiera y la 
asignación de tareas entre la Confederación y los cantones". 
1. ¿Se ha realizado una evaluación acerca de los resultados de la implementación de medida? 
3) EVOLUCIÓN DEL COMERCIO Y LA INVERSIÓN 
i) Comercio de bienes y servicios 
a) Suiza 
En el párrafo 26 menciona que la  participación de los productos agropecuarios en el total de las 
importaciones ha seguido su tendencia a la baja. 
2. ¿Podría proporcionar las razones por las cuales esta tendencia de las importaciones de 
productos agropecuarios continúa a la baja? 
3. ¿Se ha considerado la implementación de medi das por parte del Gobierno Suizo para revertir 
esta tendencia? 
ii) Inversión  
En el párrafo 37 se identifica a los elevados cost os de producción como una de las causas que ha 
limitado las oportunidades de inversión en Suiza y Liechtenstein y ha contribuido a mantener la 
formación bruta de capital fijo en niveles relativamente bajos. 
4. ¿Han desarrollado los gobiernos de ambos países  estrategias para afrontar esta supuesta 
barrera a la inversión? 
II. REGÍMENES DE COMERCIO  E INVERSIONES  
1) MARCO INSTITUCIONAL 
En el párrafo 6 se señala que la Osec Business Network Switzerland, a partir del 1º de enero de 2008, 
se hizo cargo del Programa suizo de promoción de las importaciones (SIPPO). 
5. ¿Podría proveer mayor información acerca del al cance, objetivos y actividades que desarrolla 
el programa SIPPO? 
III. POLÍTICAS Y PRÁCTICAS COMERCIALES, POR MEDIDAS 
1) INTRODUCCIÓN  
En el párrafo 3 se indica que se aplican aranceles estacionales a unas 95 categorías de productos –
principalmente frutas, legumbres y hortalizas –, los cuales también están también sujetos en su mayor 
parte a contingentes arancelarios. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 42  
 
  6. ¿Cuáles son los productos a los que se les aplica aranceles estacionales?  
2) MEDIDAS QUE AFECTAN DIRECTAMENTE A LAS IMPORTACIONES 
ii) Valoración en aduana y normas de origen b) Normas de origen 
En el párrafo 18 se señala que para el caso de las mercancías con derecho a trato preferencial, la 
declaración de aduana debe ir acompañad a de un certificado de origen válido. 
7. ¿Cuáles son los requisitos para que el certif icado de origen sea considerado como válido? 
iii) Aranceles 
c) Preferencias arancelarias 
En el párrafo 36 se establece que con arreglo a su Sistema Generalizado de Preferencias (SGP), Suiza 
y Liechtenstein otorgan un trato arancelario pref erencial no recíproco a los países que reúnen las 
condiciones requeridas. 
8. ¿Podría dar mayor especificar las condiciones que los países requieren para recibir el SGP? 
v) Otros derechos, impuestos y cargas 
En el párrafo 41 se señala que a pesar de que en la Ronda Uruguay, Suiza y Liechtenstein 
consolidaron en cero "los demás derechos y cargas"  aplicables a las importaciones, se perciben tasas 
con respecto a las importaciones de mercancías suje tas a prescripciones de constitución de reservas 
obligatorias. 
9. ¿Podría dar mayores detalles acerca del fundame nto para percibir estas tasas con respecto a 
las importaciones de mercancías sujetas a prescrip ciones de constitución de reservas obligatorias? 
3) MEDIDAS QUE AFECTAN DIRECTAMENTE LAS EXPORTACIONES 
v) Subvenciones a la exportación 
El párrafo 120 indica que como parte del proceso act ual de reformas del sector agropecuario, Suiza ha 
previsto suprimir gradualmente las subvenciones a la exportación para los productos agropecuarios 
básicos a más tardar en enero de 2010. 
10. ¿Una vez que se eliminen las subvenciones a la  exportación para los productos agropecuarios 
básicos en enero de 2010, se tiene planificado dotar  a este sector de algún otro tipo de medidas de 
apoyo?  
4) MEDIDAS QUE AFECTAN A LA PRODUCCIÓN Y AL COMERCIO 
i) Incentivos y asistencia de otro tipo 
De acuerdo al párrafo 128, el último informe del Consejo Federal sobre el examen de las 
subvenciones, que se publicó el 30 de mayo de 2008 , recoge los resultados de la evaluación de unas 
230 subvenciones (de un total de 360) y concluye  que alrededor de 70 programas de subvenciones 
deben suspenderse o revisarse, bien porque son inn ecesarios a la luz de los cambios estructurales, bien 
por haber resultado ineficientes para al canzar los objetivos del programa. 
11. ¿Podría proveer mayor información sobre l as acciones que se tomarán respecto de los 
70 programas de subvenciones que deben suspenderse o revisarse?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 43 
 
 
  En el párrafo 134, se señala que l as subvenciones a las que hace referencia este párrafo se determinan 
en función de las "condiciones del mercado". 
9. ¿Cuáles son las "condiciones del mercado" bajo las cuáles se determinarían estas 
subvenciones? 
IV. POLÍTICAS COMERCIALES, POR SECTORES    
2) AGRICULTURA Y ACTIVIDADES AFINES 
ii) Objetivos e instrumentos de política 
Según el párrafo 12, con arreglo a la Política Agríco la 2007, Suiza ha continuado el cambio gradual 
de las políticas de sostenimiento de los precios a las de pagos directos. 
10. ¿Cuáles son los motivos que han impulsado a Su iza a continuar con el cambio gradual de 
políticas de sostenimiento de los precios a las de pagos directos? 
   
   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 45 
 
 
  REPLIES PROVIDED BY SWITZERLAND  
TO THE REPORT BY THE SECRETARIAT 
SUMMARY  OBSERVATIONS  
(3) T RADE POLICY INSTRUMENTS  
(NEW ZEALAND):   
At the time of the 2004 review New Zealand ques tioned the use by Switzerland of specific tariffs on 
goods. New Zealand notes that the Swiss tariff system is composed only of specific rates 
(WT/TPR/S/208 p.xvii para 13).  
Question: Does Switzerland have any plans to move to a more transparent a d valorem regime and, if 
not, what is the rationale for maintaining a wholly specific regime? 
Answer: 
Specific duties are consistent with art. II GATT and therefore are as transparent as other forms of 
duties. As for the conversion of specific duti es, Switzerland will apply the modalities as will be 
decided by Ministers. 
I. ECONOMIC  ENVIRONMENT  
(2) RECENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS  
(CHINA):  
Page 5: Chapter I. Economic Environment, (2) Recent Economic Development, Paragraph 11:   
"… the revision of federal legislation on government procurement has been postponed." 
Question: Chapter III (2)(xi) on Page 64-67 doesn't seem to  have included information on the     
afore-mentioned "revision". Would the Delegation of Switzerland please provide clarifications on this?   
Answer: 
With regard to the objectives and the content of  the revision of the federal legislation on 
government procurement Switzerland refers to § 101. The  revision aims to modernize, to clarify, to 
flexibilize the rules which has been adopted in th e context of the implementation of the GPA 1994 
of the Uruguay Round. It also aims to harmonize th e legislation internally. The internal objectives 
are in line with those realized thro ugh the finalization of the provisionally agreed text of the revised 
GPA (2006). The revised GPA also provides appropr iate provisions to address challenges which 
emerged in the field of government procurement (i.e. electronic auctions, electronic means in the handling of government procurement, time limits , limited tendering, negotiations, technical 
specifications, conditions of participation, etc.). The  timetable of the internal revision depends from 
the state of the negotiations of the GPA.   
(ECUADOR): 
El párrafo 17 señala que Suiza, a fin de reducir las diferencias financieras entre las comunas, a partir 
del 1º de enero de 2008 introdujo la  "reforma de la organización de la compensación financiera y la 
asignación de tareas entre la Confederación y los cantones" 
Question: ¿Se ha realizado una evaluación acerca de lo s resultados de la implementación de 
medida?  
Answer: 
Le fédéralisme est l'un des principes fondamen taux inscrits dans la Constitution fédérale; la 
péréquation financière entre la Confédération et les cantons ai nsi qu'entre les cantons crée les WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 46  
 
  conditions financières nécessa ires au maintien de la structure féd éraliste de notre Etat (art. 135 de 
la Constitution fédérale). La réforme de la p éréquation financière et de la répartition des tâches 
entre la Confédération et les cantons (RPT) vise  deux objectifs principaux: réduire les disparités 
cantonales et accroître l'efficacité des structures étatiques. La péréquation financière a pour base 
légale la loi fédérale du 3 octobre 2003 sur la  péréquation financière et  la compensation des 
charges (PFCC, recueil systématique  du droit fédéral, RS 613.2).  Dotée de cinq instruments, la 
RPT agit sur deux niveaux: d'une part, au ni veau des finances (pér équation des ressources, 
compensation des charges), d'autre part, au ni veau des tâches (désenchevêtrement des tâches, 
nouvelles formes de collaboration entre la Confédération et les cantons, collaboration 
intercantonale assortie d'une compensation des charges).  
La péréquation des ressources est fo ndée sur un nouvel indice servant à estimer le potentiel de 
ressources financières et le potentiel fiscal des canton s. Cet indice permet de distinguer les cantons 
à fort potentiel de ressources des cantons à faible potentiel de ressources. Ces derniers obtiennent 
des moyens financiers non affectés de la par t des cantons à fort potentiel de ressources 
(péréquation horizontale des ressources) et de la part de la Confédération (péréquation verticale 
des ressources). La concurren ce fiscale est maintenue.  
La compensation des charges par  la Confédération indemnise les cantons pour les charges 
structurelles sur lesquelles ceux-ci n'ont pas d'in fluence. Elle comprend deux instruments: la 
compensation des charge s excessives dues à des facteurs géo- topographiques et la compensation 
des charges excessives dues à des facteurs socio-démographiques.  
Une évaluation systématique des effets de la nouvel le péréquation financière tous les quatre ans est 
prescrite par le droit fédéral. Le premier rappor t d'impact sera préparé en 2010 et soumis au 
Parlement l'année suivante. Il sera cepen dant encore actualisé à cette occasion. 
En ce moment, l'Administration fédérale des fina nces est en train d'établir à la demande des 
cantons un rapport complémentaire. Celui-ci exam ine dans quelle mesure le principe de la 
neutralité budgétaire entre  Confédération et cant ons a effectivement été respecté au moment de 
l'entrée en vigueur de la nouvelle péréquation financière en janvier 2008. Si une déviation 
significative dans le solde de la compensation des charges devait s'avérer par rapport au plan 
initial, il conviendra de prendre une décision politique si et comment cette différence dans la 
dotation des instruments de compensation financière pourra être comblée. Ce rapport 
complémentaire devrait être fourni au Conseil fédéral encore dans la première moitié de 2009.  
(3) D
EVELOPMENTS IN TRADE AND INVESTMENT  
(i) Trade in goods and services  
(a) Switzerland 
(ECUADOR): 
En el párrafo 26 menciona que la  participación de los productos agropecuarios en el total de las 
importaciones ha seguido su tendencia a la baja. 
Question: ¿Podría proporcionar las razones por las cual es esta tendencia de las importaciones de 
productos agropecuarios continúa a la baja? ¿Se ha  considerado la implemen tación de medidas por 
parte del Gobierno Suizo para revertir esta tendencia?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 47 
 
 
  Answer: 
Imports of agricultural goods have increased steeply  in the period under review. Expressed in Swiss 
Francs, imports of agricultural products have risen by more than 25 per cent between 2004 and 
2007.  The decline in imports of agricultural produ cts expressed in the secretariat's report is of 
purely relative nature. 
(ii) Investment  
(EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES):  
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 1, para. 37 
The Secretariat report outlines that as a memb er of EFTA, Switzerland and Liechtenstein are 
negotiating bilateral free trade agreements with Alge ria, India, Peru, and Thailand. Negotiations with 
Colombia and the Gulf Co-operation Council have b een concluded in substance. They also envisage 
entering into bilateral negotiations on free trade ag reements with, inter alia, Albania, Indonesia and 
Serbia and Ukraine. 
Question:  Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein elaborat e further on how they intend to encourage 
sustainable development and core labour standards in  the context of negotiations with third 
countries? 
Answer: 
La Suisse et le Liechtenstein considèrent que la libéralisation des échanges qui résulte tant de la 
conclusion d'accords commerciaux sur un plan  multilatéral (OMC) que sur un plan préférentiel 
(accords de libre-échange) contribue à la crois sance économique, avec des effets positifs à 
escompter sur l'amélioration des conditions de travail, d'emplois et du niveau de vie, tant dans les 
pays partenaires qu'en Suisse et au Liechtenstein, tout en promouvant un développement durable.  
Dans le cadre des accords de libre-échange qui sont  pour la plupart d'entre eux négociés au sein de 
l'AELE, la Suisse et le Liechtenstein s'emploient à confirmer, notamment au niveau du préambule 
ou des objectifs des accords, les principes fi gurant dans les instruments pertinents de 
l'Organisation des Nations Unies (ONU), dans l es conventions fondamentales de l'Organisation 
Internationale du Travail (OIT), ainsi qu'en relation au développement durable. L'insertion de 
telles dispositions est toutefois dépendante  de la volonté de l'Etat partenaire.  
La Suisse et le Liechtenstein continuent à exam iner l'évolution des relations entre les standards 
sociaux, le développement durable et les accords de libre-échange, à la lumière des développements 
sur le plan multilatéral et des approches suiv ies entre autres par les grandes puissances 
commerciales. 
(ECUADOR): 
En el párrafo 37 se identifica a los elevados cost os de producción como una de las causas que ha 
limitado las oportunidades de inversión en Suiza y Liechtenstein y ha contribuido a mantener la 
formación bruta de capital fijo en niveles relativamente bajos. 
Question: ¿Han desarrollado los gobiernos de ambos paí ses estrategias para afrontar esta supuesta 
barrera a la inversión? 
Answer: 
1. The Swiss Federal Council intends to stimulate the attractiveness of domestic investments 
by following a general growth policy. To fight high prices is an element of this strategy. By further opening up of the Swiss economy the production of goods and services produced locally shall become more efficient and/or cheaper, stifled by foreign competition.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 48  
 
  2. With respect to costs in the construction sector, measures to harmonize standards and 
public procurement legislation have been t aken or are under consideration. Considerable 
public infrastructure investments are on their way.   
3. As a service economy, Switzerland has only a limited need for a high capital intensity. The 
low real interest rates prove that availability of capital is hardly ever a problem. Housing 
investment does no longer reach levels observed in the '80ies, perhaps due to an ageing 
population. Equipment investment is progressing , consider e.g. ICT-equipment density in 
Switzerland in international comparison. To fi nance projects compared to finance tangible 
investment is of growing importance in a knowledge society but does hardly show up as investment in National Accounts. 
(4) O
UTLOOK  
(CHINA):  
Page 6: Chapter I. Economic Environment, (2 ) Recent Economic Development, Paragraph 16: 
"… The budget surpluses foreseen in the 2009- 2011 finance plan are expected to cover the 
Sw F 4 billion; these surpluses are based on the assumption that nominal growth of GDP will average 
3.1% until 2011."  
Page 16: Chapter I. Economic Environment, (4) outlook, Paragraph 45: 
"Switzerland's nominal GDP is expected to increas e by 3.1% on average during the 2009-11 finance 
plan… Average real GDP growth for 2009-11 is forecast at 1.5%." 
Question:  Putting the information above together, ho w will Switzerland adjust the forecast for its 
2009-11 budget situation? 
Answer: 
According to the draft budget for the year 2009 submitted by the Swiss Government to the 
Parliament in last August, the budget surplus of  the Confederation (on the regular account) was 
estimated at Sw F 1.4 bn. The budget surpluses fo reseen by the financial plan 2010-2012 amounted 
from around Sw F 200 mio (year 2010) to 700 mio (year 2012). These surpluses were based on the 
following GDP growth assumptions: 
 Nominal Real 
year 2009: 3.6% 1.3% 
years 2010-12, on average: 3.0% 1.5%1 
1 http://www.efv.admin.ch/f/themen/bund esfinanzen/voranschlag/index.php; 
 http://www.efv.admin.ch/f/themen/bund esfinanzen/finanzplan/index.php. 
With view of the recent deterioration of the econo mic outlook, the draft budget for 2009 has not 
been fundamentally revised by the Swiss Governme nt given the high uncertainties. However, the 
Swiss Government decided mid-November, in a first step, to lift the previously decided 1.0% freeze 
of numerous budget credits for 2009 and to acceler ate the implementation of investment projects 
already decided. These measures will amount to a total of Sw F 340 mio in the year 2009. For the 
detail of the measures, refer to the  answers to qu estions of China (7 and 8) and Chinese Taipei in 
the document of responses to questions on Switzerland's government report (section iv. Macroeconomic policies).  
Taking these measures into account and on the basis of a bad case scenario, the latest budget 
calculations indicate that the requirement of the debt brake rule (fiscal rule) should be fulfilled in 
the year 2009. The room for ma noeuvre, however, will decrease from Sw F 1.1 bn in the  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 49 
 
 
  August draft budget to 0.6 bn. If a second stimul ating package, with expenditures of Sw F half a 
billion as currently considered, follows the above d ecided measures, the entire fiscal margin will 
then be used next year. 
As far as the years 2010-2012 are concerned, the fina ncial data will be revised in the course of the 
next budgeting and financial planning round, starting next January.  
Page 16: Chapter I. Economic Environment, (4) outlook, Paragraph 47:  
"… the SNB expects inflation to ease toward the end of 2008." 
Question:  Does the most recent statistics of Switzerland confirm this expectation? 
Answer: 
In the wake of higher oil prices, CPI inflation pe aked at more than 3% in July 2008. Since then, 
inflation has started decreasing, reaching 2.6% in  November (as of writing). As a result of the drop 
in the prices of raw materials and oil, pri ce stability will be restored sooner than previously 
expected, and inflation is likely to fall below 2% as early as the end of this year. This view is 
supported to different extents by various SNB's statistics published in its Monetary policy 
report/Quarterly Bulletin (i.e. several core indi ces and an official inflation forecast). 
II. TRADE AND INVESTMENT REGIMES   
(1) I NSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK  
(ECUADOR): 
En el párrafo 6 se señala que la Osec Business Network Switzerland, a partir del 1° de enero de 2008, 
se hizo cargo del Programa suizo de promoción de las importaciones (SIPPO) 
Question: ¿Podría proveer mayor información acerca de l alcance, objetivos y actividades que 
desarrolla el programa SIPPO? 
Answer: 
SIPPO facilitates access to the Swiss and wider Eu ropean markets for small and medium-sized 
enterprises (SMEs) from developing and trans ition countries by implementing suitably designed 
trade promotion programmes. SIPPO also supports  Swiss importers in finding new products and 
suppliers and improving access to the procurement markets of developing and transition countries. 
SIPPO provides the following services: 
• Trade and market information – In-depth info rmation is made available on individual 
branches. The aim of providing this informa tion is to familiarise producers in emerging 
markets and markets in transition with Eur opean norms, standards, quality requirements, 
import and custom regulations and charg es. Additionally, SIPPO provides market 
overviews in specific sectors or countries. 
• Matchmaking services – SIPPO identifies product s (sourcing) with a potential in the Swiss 
and European markets. The import promotio n programme supports the establishment of 
contacts between producers and importers by providing addresses and direct contacts and 
by organising selling & buying missions and the participation in international trade fairs 
or road shows. In particular, at the trade fairs within Europe the producers from the 
partner countries have the possibility to exhib it their products, to establish new contacts 
and to gain knowledge of their direct competition. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 50  
 
  • Training – SIPPO provides training for SMEs  in the partner countries in different areas 
e.g. export marketing, trade promotion, d esign and quality management. This training 
familiarises the exporters with the prerequis ites for a competent su pplier. They become 
more sensitive to the demands of Swiss and Eu ropean importers, their product adjustment 
and how to react in a creative way. 
SIPPO focuses its activities on selected countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Colombia, 
Egypt, Ghana, Indonesia, Jordan, Macedonia, Mont enegro, Peru, Serbia, South Africa, Ukraine 
and Vietnam) and sectors (e.g. organic produce, furniture, software or sustainable tourism).  
(2) F
ORMULATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF TRADE POLICY  
(3) TRADE POLICY OBJECTIVES  
(4) T RADE AGREEMENTS AND  ARRANGEMENTS  
(i) WTO 
(ii) Regional and bilateral agreements (KOREA):  
Trade Agreements and Arrangements, "II. Trade and Investment Regimes", p. 25-27)  
1. Paragraph 32 states that Switzerland has reached an agreement (in principle) on a FTA with 
Japan.    
Question:  
a) Is there a particular reason the FTA initiative w ith Japan was not promoted as a joint EFTA 
effort? 
Answer: 
Switzerland most of the time concludes its FTAs in the framework of EFTA. However, the 
Agreement under review was negotiated on a bila teral basis because it was Japan's preference to do 
so. EFTA not being a customs union, all EFTA States remain free under the EFTA Convention to conclude bilateral trade agreements.  
b) Please provide details of the Swiss-Japan FTA. (e.g ., inter alia, the coverage in terms of chapters, 
the coverage of the MA chapter (industrial, fish eries, etc.), the coverage and structure of the 
services chapter (whether adopted a GATS-style  approach or a NAFTA style non-conforming 
measures approach), the structure and major ob ligations of the Investment chapter, major 
elements of the IPR and the competition chapter, etc.).  
Answer:   
The main elements of the Switzerland Japan Free Trade and Economic Partnership (FTEPA) are 
as follows: 
– Trade in Goods: Both sides will eliminate or reduce tariffs on industrial, and agricultural, 
 forestry and fishery products comprehensively. With the entry into force of the FTEPA, 
 most tariffs on industrial goods will be e liminated, with minor exceptions. Furthermore, 
 Switzerland and Japan will grant each other tariff concessions on a selected number of  unprocessed and processed agricultural products,  including fisheries and forestry products. 
 In addition, the JSFTEPA contains provisions on non-tariff measures.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 51 
 
 
  − Customs Procedures and Trade Facilitation: Bo th sides will promote trade facilitation and 
effective enforcement against illicit goods or good s infringing intellectual property rights 
through simplification of customs proced ures, cooperation between authorities and 
exchange of information. 
− Trade in Services & Movement of Natural Persons: The JSFTEPA will provide a 
framework for liberalization of trade in servi ces based upon a "negative list" approach, 
and facilitate movement of natural persons  for business purposes between the two 
countries. 
− Investment: The JSFTEPA will provide a framew ork for further expansion and facilitation 
of cross-border investment between the two countries through commitments on national 
treatment, most-favored-natio n treatment, and enhanced protection of investors and 
investment including mechanism of dispute settlement between state and investor. 
− Intellectual Property: Both sides will protect all categories of intellectual property rights 
covered by the TRIPS Agreement and the new varieties of plants, provide measures for 
enforcement of intellectual property rights  and cooperate in promoting adequate and 
effective enforcement of intellectual property rights. 
− Government Procurement: The JSFTEPA will provide a framework for exchange of 
information through contact points and a mech anism for further dialogue with a view to 
maximizing access to the government proc urement market of the two countries. 
− Competition: The JSFTEPA will provide a fram ework for effective enforcement of the 
competition laws and regulations through th e development of a cooperative relationship 
between the competition authorities of the two countries. 
− Electronic Commerce: The JSFTEPA contains a chapter on electronic commerce, which 
encompasses a comprehensive set of provisions including those related to digital products, 
services transmitted electronically, electronic signatures and protection of online consumers with a view to encouraging an d facilitating electronic commerce between both 
countries. 
− Promotion of Closer Economic Relationship: The JSFTEPA will provide a mechanism for 
the promotion of closer economic relationship between Japan and Switzerland, with the participation of the governments and the business sectors of the two countries. 
c) What is the timeline for signature and implementation?  
Answer:   
The FTEPA covers all goods in HS chapters 1-97. Th erefore, no separate agreement on agriculture 
will be concluded. Switzerland and Japan will grant each other tariff concessions on selected unprocessed and processed agricultural products, refl ecting their trading interests and within the 
bounds of their respective agricultural policies.  
d) Concurrent to the FTA, was a separate chapter or  agreement concluded for agriculture? If so, 
please describe its salient features.  
Answer:   
The two Parties are working toward a rapid signin g and entry into force of the FTEPA. We hope 
that the Agreement will be signed within the first quarter of 2009, allowing the Agreement to enter 
into force before the end of 2009. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 52  
 
  2. Paragraph 33 states that the EFTA states have finalized the EFTA-Canada FTA.  
Question:  
a) Please provide details of the EFTA-Canada FTA. (e .g., inter alia, the coverage in terms of 
chapters, the coverage of the MA chapter (industrial,  fisheries, etc.), the coverage and structure 
of the services chapter (whether adopted a GATS-style approach or a NAFTA style non-
conforming measures approach), the structure and major obligations of the Investment chapter, 
major elements of the IPR and the competition chapter, etc.)  
Answer:  
The EFTA-Canada FTA covers trade in industrial products, including fish and other marine 
products, and processed agricultural products. Most industrial goods, including fish and other 
marine products, will benefit from duty-free access to the respective markets as of the entry into 
force of the Agreement. The Agreement also provides for tariff concessions on processed 
agricultural products. Regarding trade in ser vices, investment and public procurement the 
agreement includes references to WTO obligations and provides for negotiations to start at the 
latest three years after its entry into force.  In addition the agreement covers principles of 
competition law and policy, and trade facilitation. It also contains a general evolutionary clause. 
The text of the FTA is available on the web page of the EFTA Secretariat: http://www.efta.int/content/free-trade/fta-countries/canada.  
b) Concurrent to the FTA, was a separate chapter or  agreement concluded for agriculture? If so, 
please describe its salient features.  
Answer:   
The individual EFTA states have, in parallel to the FTA referred to above, concluded bilateral 
agriculture agreements with Canada that contain ta riff concessions for basic agricultural products. 
The texts of the bilateral agriculture agreements fo rm part of the instruments establishing the free 
trade area between the EFTA-States and Canada. They are available on the web page of the EFTA 
Secretariat: http://www.efta.int/content/free-trade/fta-countries/canada.  
c) What is the timeline for signature and implementation? 
Answer: 
The EFTA-Canada FTA was signed on 26 January 2008 and is expected to enter into force by 
Mid-2009. 
(a) European Free Trade Association (EFTA) 
(AUSTRALIA):   
We note Switzerland has reached an agreement (in pr inciple) on a Free Trade Agreement with Japan 
(WT/TPR/S/208 page 25 para 32) 
Question:  We would welcome advice on the scope and outcomes of the FTA, including on agriculture. 
Answer: 
The main elements of the Switzerland Japan Free Trade and Economic Partnership (FTEPA) are 
as follows: 
– Trade in Goods: Both sides will eliminate or reduce tariffs on industrial, and agricultural, 
 forestry and fishery products comprehensively. With the entry into force of the FTEPA, 
 most tariffs on industrial goods will be e liminated, with minor exceptions. Furthermore, 
 Switzerland and Japan will grant each other tariff concessions on selected unprocessed and  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 53 
 
 
   processed agricultural products, including fisheries and forestry products, reflecting their 
 trading interests and within the bounds of thei r respective agricultural policies. In addition, 
 the JSFTEPA contains provisions on non-tariff measures. 
− Customs Procedures and Trade Facilitation: Bo th sides will promote trade facilitation and 
effective enforcement against illicit goods or good s infringing intellectual property rights 
through simplification of customs proced ures, cooperation between authorities and 
exchange of information. 
− Trade in Services & Movement of Natural Persons: The JSFTEPA will provide a 
framework for liberalization of trade in servi ces based upon a "negative list" approach, 
and facilitate movement of natural persons  for business purposes between the two 
countries. 
− Investment: The JSFTEPA will provide a framew ork for further expansion and facilitation 
of cross-border investment between the two countries through commitments on national 
treatment, most-favoured-nation treatment,  and enhanced protection of investors and 
investment including mechanism of dispute settlement between state and investor. 
− Intellectual Property: Both sides will protect all categories of intellectual property rights 
covered by the TRIPS Agreement and the new varieties of plants, provide measures for enforcement of intellectual property rights  and cooperate in promoting adequate and 
effective enforcement of intellectual property rights. 
− Government Procurement: The JSFTEPA will provide a framework for exchange of 
information through contact points and a mech anism for further dialogue with a view to 
maximizing access to the government proc urement market of the two countries. 
− Competition: The JSFTEPA will provide a fram ework for effective enforcement of the 
competition laws and regulations through th e development of a cooperative relationship 
between the competition authorities of the two countries. 
− Electronic Commerce: The JSFTEPA contains a chapter on electronic commerce, which 
encompasses a comprehensive set of provisions including those related to digital products, 
services transmitted electronically, electronic signatures and protection of online 
consumers with a view to encouraging an d facilitating electronic commerce between both 
countries. 
− Promotion of Closer Economic Relationship: The JSFTEPA will provide a mechanism for 
the promotion of closer economic relationship between Japan and Switzerland, with the participation of the governments and the business sectors of the two countries.  
(KOREA):  
Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications  
3. Article 22 of the Revised EFTA Convention calls  to "take up and pursue activities ... concerning 
the mutual recognition of diplomas, certificates and other evidence of formal qualifications, and 
the coordination of the provisions laid down by law, regulation or administrative action in the 
Member States concerning the taking up and pur suit of activities by workers and self-employed 
persons".   
Question:  In light of the above,  
a) For the professions included in Appendix 3 to Annex K, could Switzerland provide the status of 
the activities called for by Article 22 of the Revised EFTA Convention? WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 54  
 
  Answer: 
In keeping with said provision of the Revised EFTA Convention, Switzerland continually strives to 
adapt – whenever necessary – its domestic legislatio n in light of the developments within the 
relevant legal framework of the EC or the EEA respectively.   
b) Could Switzerland clarify which body  (state or relevant professional associations) holds the 
authority for the recognition of diplomas, certificates and other evidence of formal qualifications?  
Answer: 
• The Federal Office of Public Health (FOP H) is the authority responsible for the 
recognition of academic health care professions (doctors, dentists, veterinarians, pharmacists).  
• The Swiss Red Cross (SRC) is responsible for the recognition of non-academic health care 
professions (notably nursing, laboratory assistant, physiotherapy). 
• The Swiss Conference of Cantonal Ministers of Education (EDK) is responsible for the 
Education training programmes. 
• For all other professions, the Federal Office of Professional Education and Technology 
(OPET) is competent. In particular, the Contact Point for the Recognition of Foreign Diplomas can inform applicants on the possi bility of their diploma being recognized. In 
limited cases, cantonal authorities can also be involved in the recognition procedure. 
c) If the answer is "relevant professional associa tions" in b), could Switzerland elaborate whether 
there were any difficulties in amassing support for introducing the mutual recognition scheme 
within EFTA? If so, how were these difficulties overcome? 
Answer: 
The professional associations are not in volved in the process of recognition. 
d) For professional services not specifically mentioned in  Appendix 3 to Annex K such as accounting 
services or auditing services, does it mean that tho se professions are not subject to mutual 
recognition schemes? 
Answer: 
YES. 
e) In light of GATS Article 7 (Recognition), wo uld Switzerland be open to providing "adequate 
opportunity for other interested Members to negot iate their accession to such an agreement or 
arrangement or to negotiate comparable ones with it" ? If yes, what would be the procedures that 
Switzerland envisages? 
Answer: 
According to Article VII GATS, Switzerland is  obliged to provide adequate opportunity for 
interested WTO members to negotiate their acce ssion to recognition agreements or arrangements 
or to negotiation comparable ones with these WT O members. A WTO member interested in such 
negotiation may, for example, contact the en quiry point established under Article II:4 GATS.    
4. In relation to the Swiss-EC 'Agreement on th e Free Movement of Persons', please provide a 
detailed list of professional services to whic h recognition of diplomas apply under the said 
agreement.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 55 
 
 
  Answer:  
Please find the list at http://www.bbt.admin .ch/themen/hoehere/00169/00370/index.html?lang= 
de&download=M3wBPgDB/8ull6Du36WenojQ1N TTjaXZnqWfVpzLhmfhnapmmc7Zi6rZnqCkkIN
0gX2BbKbXrZ6lhuDZz8mMps2gpKfo. 
(b) European Economic Area (EEA) 
(c) Switzerland's relations with the European Communities (EC) 
(d) Other 
(iii) Trade disputes  and consultations  
(5) I NVESTMENT REGIME  
(ARGENTINA):  
En el párrafo 54 el informe menciona que para la  inversión en determinadas actividades (como banca, 
seguros, hoteles, restaurantes, medicina, odontologí a, farmacia, abogacía, comerciantes de vino, 
agencias privadas de empleo, servicios de empleo temporal) la aprobación  gubernamental está sujeta 
a cláusulas de "demostración de la necesidad".  
Question:  ¿En qué consiste esta cláusula? 
Answer: 
• Licensing of restaurants is still subject to a necessity test in the canton of Basel-Land. This 
clause will soon be abolished, however. By 2014 at the latest, the location and operation of restaurants will be fully market determined in all Cantons.  
• The Federal Ordinance on health insuran ce provides for quantitative ceilings for each 
canton in respect of medical services suppli ers admitted to practice on account of the 
compulsory medical and health insurance, including physicians, dentists, pharmacists, 
chiropractors, midwifes, physiotherapists and medical laboratories. In addition, Cantons 
may exclude any further admission if the dens ity of service suppliers in the canton is above 
the regional or national average. 
• There are no economic needs tests for banks, insurances, hotels, legal consultation and 
representation, merchants of wine, private agencies of employment and services of employment storm.  
Question:  En el párrafo 65, el informe menciona que, en materia de inversiones, los cantones  pueden 
otorgar ventajas fiscales por un máximo de 10 años  a las empresas nuevas. ¿Podrían explicar en qué 
consisten estas ventajas fiscales y cuáles son lo s requisitos y las bases sobre las cuales se otorgan? 
Answer: 
The fiscal advantages may take different fo rms (depending on the cantonal laws): 
• exemption from corporate income tax or c apital tax for a period of 5 or 10 years. In 
general, the exemption is reduced with time; 
• tax reductions for a period of 5 or 10 years; 
• constitution of tax-free reserv es for future investments; 
• loss carry-forward possible on all losses incu rred during the period of tax relief. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 56  
 
  The newly created business needs to be in the in terest of the economy. The (cantonal) government 
decides on the nature and the duration of the tax relief. The following criteria may be taken into 
consideration: 
• number of new jobs created and amounts of salaries paid; 
• technological development; 
• opening of new markets; 
• production of new goods or of goods that  are complementary to existing goods. 
(i) Switzerland  
(INDIA):  
It is learnt that the limits on the number of work permits issued by Switzerland has been removed. 
However, the limitation on residency an d work permit in NT still remain.  
Question:  India would like to be informed about the la test position in this regard along with the 
details of the limitations. 
Answer: 
Switzerland grants entry, temporary stay and work to  the extent provided for in its commitments in 
Mode 4, provided that such natural persons are otherwise qualified under applicable immigration 
laws and regulations (working conditi ons prevailing in the branch, etc).  
Question: India would like to be informed about the p resent status of the policy which was under 
consideration in 2005 with regard to In dependent Professionals under Mode 4. 
Answer: 
The question on "Independent Professi onals" remains under consideration. 
As per the Foreign Nationals Act only a lim ited number of well-qualified professionals are 
admitted from non-EU/EFTA countries, with the qu otas being determined by the Federal Council 
on an annual basis. Thus, only a limited number of management level employees, specialists and 
other qualified employees are admitted from oth er countries. Further, non-EU/EFTA nationals 
may only be admitted if a person cannot be recruited from the labour market of Switzerland or another EU/EFTA member state.  
Question: What is the numerical ceiling in this regar d and the basis of the quota? Further India 
would like to be informed about the basis of de termination of quotas; whether on the basis of 
professions or nationality or other criteria along with  the actual break-up of the quota for each such 
criterion 
(KOREA):  
2.   In paragraph 53 of the Secretariat Report, it is  stated that "As a general rule no approval from the 
Government, chambers of commerce or professi onal associations is required to establish a 
business. A work and residence permit is neve rtheless required to conduct a business personally 
on a permanent basis; foreigners without a residence permit may employ Swiss nationals to 
operate their business. Swiss nationals do not need to hold a certain percentage of the equity." 
Based upon these descriptions, it may be reasoned that the issuance of a work permit or a 
residence permit could act as a de facto deterrence for foreign participation in the Swiss market.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 57 
 
 
  Question:  In light of the above concern, plea se provide answers to the following: 
a) What are the requirements and procedures to obtain a work permit? 
b) What are the requirements and proce dures to obtain a residence permit? 
c) Is there difference in treatment based on na tionality (EC and EEA vs non-EC and non-EEA) when 
submitting and obtaining a work/residence permit?  
d) Are work/residence permits issu ed for non-EC and non-EEA natio nals within the numerical limit 
of 4,000 (residency permit) and 7,000(short-term  permits) set annually in accordance with the 
Foreign Nationals Act? 
Answer to India and Korea:  
Switzerland does not make any formal distinc tion between a work and residence permit. A 
residence permit allowing to work is granted to  a foreign worker if he is qualified and/or 
specialised and has professional work experi ence. Limitations on immigrant workers are 
applicable, such as labour market tests, prior control of wage and employment conditions and 
numerical ceilings. The qualification requirement does not apply to investors and entrepreneurs 
creating employment opportunities in Switzerland, to  recognised persons from science, culture or 
sports, and persons in an international management transfer.  
Regarding the procedure, the relevant application documents have to be submitted to the cantonal 
employment service or the cantonal migration ag ency by the employer or self-employed persons. 
Approval by the federal government is requi red before a residence permit may be issued.  
Switzerland has concluded a whole series of  agreements with the European Communities since 
1972 which serve as the basis for close cooperation in policy areas includ ing research, security, 
asylum, culture,  environment, technical barriers to  trade, public procurement, free movement of 
persons, agriculture, research, overland transpor t, civil aviation etc. Admission and stay of 
nationals from EC Member countries are ruled by th e bilateral agreement on the free movement of 
persons with the EC. This agreemen t, based on EC legislation, involves a progressive reciprocal 
opening of the labour markets of Switzerland and EU Member states. 
Quotas are numerical ceilings that are set up annually by the Swiss government. They aim at 
limiting the overall number of foreign workers admitte d into the Swiss labour market. 4,000 long 
term residence permits and 7,000 short term  permits allowing to work are available every year.   
(KOREA): 
5. In paragraph 53 of the Secretariat Report, it is stat ed that " ... investment r estrictions continue to 
apply to areas under state monopolies, including ...  certain insurance services and commercial 
activities(e.g. trade in salt)."  
Question: In light of the above, please list the type of investment restrictions that apply for "certain 
insurance services and commercial activities (e.g. trade  in salt)." Please also elaborate on the need 
for such restrictions. 
Answer: 
Insurance:   La comparaison entre les cantons où un syst ème de monopole existe et les cantons avec 
un système privé, permet certaines conclusions: le  système de monopole, combiné avec l'obligation 
de s'assurer, permet de rationaliser les commissi ons et frais administratifs. Les 19 établissements 
cantonaux d'assurance immobilière (ECA) dépensent en moyenne 6 centimes par 1 000 francs de capital assuré (ct/francs CA) pour ces deux postes,  chez les assureurs privés ce rapport s'élève à 
33ct/1 000 francs CA. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 58  
 
  Par le fait que la couverture géographique est clairement déterminée et attribuée à une seule 
entreprise, les ECA peuvent se considérer comme des entreprises verticalement intégrées actives 
dans l'assurance et la prévention. En termes économiques, il s'agit de délimiter très précisément 
une externalité et de l'attribuer à un seul acteur économique, qui sera alors incité à en réduire les 
effets. L'institution qui retire un bénéfice matériel direct d'une meilleure prévention est aussi 
chargée de son organisation et de son financem ent. De fait, les ECA sont actifs dans un large 
éventail d'activités de prévention: ils intervien nent dans l'aménagement du territoire pour 
empêcher que des bâtiments soient construits  dans des zones soumises à un danger accru 
d'éléments naturels; ils collaborent à l'élaboration des normes de construction; et finalement ils 
sont très actifs dans la formation, la coordina tion et le financement des pompiers. Le taux de 
sinistre, par conséquent, est sensiblement plus  faible dans les cantons avec un monopole, ce qui 
réduit d'autant les coûts des ECA. L'ECA peut al ors répercuter ces avan tages sur l'assuré, qui 
bénéficie d'une prime moyenne de 40% plus faible que celle payée aux assureurs privés. 
Les ECA ne sont donc pas de simples sociétés d'as surance. Ils constituent un système qui n'est en 
mesure d'accomplir judicieusement et efficacement sa  tâche de droit public pour le bien-être de la 
population que dans le contexte du triangle "p révention des dommages, lutte  contre les dommages, 
liquidation des dommages".  
Salt:
  The trade in salt in Switzerland has historic ally been under state monopoly. The monopoly is 
exercised by the cantons at the sub-federal level and is thus not in the sphere of competence of the 
national government. The monopoly was introduced for public health reasons to combat goitre by 
ensuring the addition of iodine to salt and to guarantee the supply of salt at affordable and unified prices throughout the country. 
6. Paragraph 54 of the Secretariat report describes the licensing and/or diploma requirements for 
services sectors and related Mode 4 prov isions in place in Switzerland.  
Question:   
a) Please clarify whether nationality and/or residency requirements exist in se rvices-related licenses 
in Switzerland. If so, please provide which licen se(s) require nationality and/or residency for the 
issuance of the license. 
Answer: 
As a general rule, establishing commercial presen ce in the form of a juridical person in 
Switzerland, demands that at least one person of the company with the right to represent the 
company must be domiciled in Switzerland. The establishment of a branch requires a representative (natural person) with domicile in Sw itzerland who is duly authorised by the company 
to fully represent it. The establishment of commercial presence by natural persons or in the form of 
an enterprise without juridical personality according to Swiss law is subject to the requirement of a 
permanent residence permit of the associate(s)  under cantonal law. Further going residency 
requirements may be included in sectoral or sp ecific laws or regulations. For services sectors 
requiring licenses, residency requirements exist, fo r example, in the following cases: distribution of 
weapons, weapon components, acce ssories for weapons, ammunitio n and ammunition components; 
distribution of explosives; distribution of precious metals, distribution of medicinal products, 
medical devices, transplant products, narcotics,  psychotropic substances, precursors and other 
chemicals used to produce narcotics and psychotropic substances; provision of gambling services in casinos; commercial assayer  services; placement services of  personnel; blood collection and 
storage services. Nationality require ments have been abolished in principle, with only a few 
exceptions.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 59 
 
 
  b) In regards to the annual quota set for non-EC and non-EEA nationals in accordance with the 
Foreign Nationals Act, please provide statistics on: 
(1) the yearly quota (residency permit and short-term p ermit separately) for the past 6 years      
(2002-2007),  
(2) the yearly 'fill rates' of these quotas  for the past 6 years (2002-2007),  
Answer: 
Annual quota third countries (EC+10 included) 
Residency permit Short-term permit Years 
Quota   Fill rate (%) Quota  Fill rate (%) 
1.06.02 until 31.10.02 2,000  1,300 65 2,500 1,300  52 
1.11.02 until 31.10.03 4,000  2,200 55 5,000 3,100 62 
1.11.03 until 31.10.04 4,000  2,200 55 5,000  3,400  68 
1.11.04 until 31.10.05 4,000 + 700* 2,700 57 5,000 + 2'5000 7,200  96 
1.11.05 until 31.10.06 4,000 +700* 3,000 64 5,000 + 2'5000 7,400  99 
1.11.06 until 31.10.07 4,000 (without EC10)  3,600 90 7,000**(without EC10) 6,900 99 
* Prequotas EC10 
** Increment up to 7,000 short-term residents. 
(3) the top 5 nationalities making use of these quotas 
Answer: 
Top 5 nationalities making use of the annual quota 
2002/03 1. USA 2. Canada 3. India 4. Poland* 5. PR China 
2003/04 1. USA 2. India 3. Canada 4. Poland* 5. PR China 
2004/05 1. USA 2. India 3. Canada 4. Poland* 5. PR China 
2005/06 1. India 2. USA 3. Canada 4. Brazil 5. PR China 
2006/07 1. India 2. USA 3. Ca nada 4. PR China 5. Russia 
* Poland -> Third Country regulation until 1 April 2006. 
7. In paragraph 56, it is noted that "The requireme nt for the majority of the board of directors 
(except for holding companies) to  be Swiss citizens with domicile in Switzerland, or EC or EFTA 
countries citizens residing in an EC or EFTA country was eliminated in January 2008."  
Question: Korea welcomes this new development, and loo ks forward to this change in the domestic 
law of Switzerland to be reflected in the next  revision of Switzerland's schedule of specific 
commitments for Services. 
Answer: 
The referred amendments in the code of obliga tions of January 2008 are already partially reflected 
in the revised conditional offer of Switzerland an d is subject to the Doha services negotiation. 
Moreover, Switzerland has granted the commitment o ffered in the revised conditional offer already 
to its free trade partners, including Korea, in  the context of its free trade agreements. 
(COLOMBIA):   
52.  Suiza ha establecido condiciones generales favor ables a los inversores.  Es una de las economías 
más competitivas del mundo. Como norma general, la lib ertad de comercio e industria y el derecho de 
propiedad están protegidos por la Constitución.  El Code des Obligations es el principal fundamento 
jurídico aplicable a la inversión. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 60  
 
  Question:  ¿En que consiste el "Code des obligations"? ¿Quién lo regula? 
Answer: 
The Swiss Code of Obligations of 30 March 1911 is the contract law of Switzerland (from the latin 
noun obligatio: contract, obligation). It consist of  five parts: i) the general provisions, ii) the 
different types of contracts; iii) the types of soci eties; iv) the trade register, and the rules of 
bookkeeping; v) securities. 
The Swiss Code of Obligations is a federal statut e. Amendments are to be decided by the Federal 
Assembly subject to a optional popular referendum. 
54. Se pueden aplicar disposiciones sobre licencias y prescripciones en materia de títulos de aptitud en 
algunas actividades, como banca, seguros y corretaje de  inversiones;  hoteles y restaurantes;  ejercicio 
de la medicina, la odontología, la farmacia y la a bogacía;  y determinadas empresas de comercio y 
servicios (por ejemplo, comerciantes de vino, agencias privadas de empleo, servicios de empleo 
temporal).   Los extranjeros pueden desarrollar est as actividades en Suiza siempre que cuenten con los 
permisos necesarios.  En determinados casos, la probación (para los extranjeros, así como para los 
suizos) está sujeta a cláusulas "demostración de la ne cesidad" (capítulo IV 5) vii)).  Se prevé que para 
2014 se liberalizarán completamente los requisitos de residencia para los nacionales de las CE y el 
EEE, en el marco del acuerdo bilateral con las CE  sobre libertad de movimiento de las personas 
(sección 4) ii) c) supra).  Según la Ley de Extranjería,  el ingreso de nacionales de terceros países (no 
residentes de las CE ni la AELC) está sujeto a un sistema de contingentes, pruebas de necesidad del 
mercado laboral, y controles previos sobre salarios y condiciones de empleo.  En 2007, el contingente 
anual fue de 4.000 permisos de r esidencia y 7.000 permisos de corta duración.  Los contingentes para 
todo el país se distribuyen por cantón.  No se exige ningún permiso para comprar bienes raíces 
comerciales ni industriales, ni residencias principales. 
Question:  ¿Quién controla y regula el ingreso de nac ionales de terceros países (no residentes de las 
CE ni la AELC)? 
Answer: 
The admission of third country nationals to Switzerl and is to a large extent in the competence of 
the Cantons. The federal Governme nt may overturn a positive decision from a Canton, but may not 
force a Canton to admit a third country national against it's will. The federal immigration 
legislation and the directives of the federal immigr ation authorities provide mandatory guidelines, 
but leave the authorities with enough dicretionary power to decide individual applications case by 
case. Enforcement is also primarily in the ha nds of the cantonal immigration authorities.  
Paragraph 68: 
Question:  Colombia se permite solicitar un listado gen eral de los incentivos a la inversión que ofrece 
Suiza/Liechtenstein o de las condiciones favo rables a los inversores a los que hace referencia. 
Answer: 
The fiscal advantages may take different fo rms (depending on the cantonal laws): 
• exemption from corporate income tax or c apital tax for a period of 5 or 10 years. In 
general, the exemption is reduced with time; 
• tax reductions for a period of 5 or 10 years; 
• constitution of tax-free reserv es for future investments; 
• loss carry-forward possible on all losses incu rred during the period of tax relief.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 61 
 
 
  The newly created business needs to be in the in terest of the economy. The (cantonal) government 
decides on the nature and the duration of the tax relief. The following criteria may be taken into 
consideration: 
• number of new jobs created and amounts of salaries paid; 
• technological development; 
• opening of new markets; 
• production of new goods or of goods that  are complementary to existing goods. 
Question:  ¿Existe en Suiza/Liechtenstein alguna polític a de Gobierno en relación con el manejo, 
administración y defensa frente a demandas en materia de inversión,  presentadas por inversionistas 
en contra del Estado?  
Answer:  
Switzerland: To date, no arbitration procedure re lating to an investment was launched by a foreign 
investor against Switzerland and no particular policy was adopted by Switzerland with respect to 
the settlement of this kind of disputes. 
Question:  ¿Existe algún fondo público cuyo objeto sea el de cubrir los gastos del Estado por 
concepto de condenas y erogaciones ocasionados po r demandas contra el Estado en materia de 
Inversión? 
Answer:  
Switzerland: In the event of the implication of Sw itzerland in an investment dispute with a foreign 
investor, the Federal Council (Government) would be authorized to settle the question of the costs 
and expenses and, if necessary, to request  a special credit from the Parliament. 
Question:  ¿Qué autoridad está encargada del control de las inversiones extranjeras? ¿Qué ente lleva 
la información estadística sobre IED? ¿Está regla mentado el aporte de in formación relacionada con 
IED?  
Answer: 
In Switzerland, there is no general control of  foreign investments and therefore there is no 
authority in charge of such general controls. How ever, a control can take place at the sector level, 
for example, the Swiss Federal Banking Commission  is in charge of the control of banking 
activities in Switzerland.   
In Switzerland/Liechtenstein the Swiss National Ba nk is in charge of collecting information on 
foreign direct investment. According to the Fe deral Act on the Swiss National Bank of 
3 October 2003 (National Bank Act) and the impl ementing Ordinance on the National Bank Act of 
18 March 2004, the Swiss National Bank is authori sed to collect the required statistical data on 
foreign direct investment.  
(CHILE): 
66.  Se otorga una exención por participación (a ni vel federal, cantonal y municipal) en forma de 
reducción del impuesto sobre la renta a las sociedades que posean al menos el 20 por ciento de las acciones de otra empresa, o con una inversión por  un valor de mercado de 2 millones de francos 
suizos como mínimo en otra empresa.  En el primer caso, la reducción abarca también las ganancias de capital sobre las inversiones.  La reducción fiscal  es proporcional a la relación entre la renta neta 
procedente de la participación cualificada y los ingresos totales. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 62  
 
  Question:  Dado que estas reducciones se dan a varios niveles, ¿es posible que se superpongan estos 
beneficios? Es decir ¿es posible que se le otor guen 2 o hasta 3 exenciones (federal, cantonal, y 
municipal) a una misma empresa a la vez? ¿A cuánto equivale esta relación entre la renta neta y los 
ingresos totales? ¿Cuántos y quiénes son los beneficiarios? 
Answer: 
In Switzerland, the corporate income tax ist levied on the profit of a company. If the same profit is paid out to the parent company and afterwards to its shareholders, it is again submitted to the (corporate) income tax. This may result in an econ omic triple taxation. In order to avoid this 
economic triple taxation, Switzerland has adopted a system, whereby a company receiving 
dividends or capital gains from qualifying partic ipations (20%/CHF 2 million) may file for a tax 
relief in the form of a reduction of the corporate income tax. 
Companies with qualifying participations may redu ce their corporate income tax by reference to 
the ratio between net earnings on such participations and total net profit.  
Formula to calculate the tax relief: 
(corporate income tax x net qualifying dividend income / capital gains)
 
total net profit 
As the profit of a company is taxed on three le vels (federal, cantonal and communal), the above 
explained tax relief is granted on all three levels to  avoid a triple taxation of the income deriving 
from qualifying participations. 
III. TRADE POLICIES AND  PRACTICES BY MEASURE  
(1) I NTRODUCTION   
(ECUADOR): 
En el párrafo 3 se indica que se aplican aranceles estacionales a unas 95 categorías de productos -
principalmente frutas, legumbres y hortalizas-, los cu ales también están también sujetos en su mayor 
parte a contingentes arancelarios. 
Question: ¿Cuáles son los productos a los que se les aplica aranceles estacionales? 
Answer: 
Please refer to the reply to the question by  India under Chapter III. (2) (iii) (a). 
(2) M EASURES DIRECTLY  AFFECTING IMPORTS  
(i) Customs  procedures   
(ii) Customs valuation and rules of origin 
(ARGENTINA):   
En el párrafo 16 el informe indica que el despacho de las mercaderías importadas se realiza sobre la 
base de su peso bruto. No obstante, si estas no est án embaladas o si la autoridad aduanera considera 
que su embalaje no les brinda una protección "suf iciente" contra los da ños que se puedan producir 
durante el transporte, se les aplica una "tara adici onal", que es un suplemento igual a la diferencia 
entre el peso bruto y el peso neto, expresado en porcentaje del peso neto. 
Question:  ¿Cuáles son los requisitos que debe cump lir un embalaje para considerar que su 
protección es "suficiente"? ¿Cuál es la norm a jurídica que regula estos requisitos?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 63 
 
 
  Answer: 
• The issue of whether packaging offers sufficient protection against damage in transit is 
assessed in accordance with the requirements app licable to the type of transport in question 
(e.g. air, train, truck). There are no fixed standards since each good is packed differently 
according to the actual needs.  It is up to  the customs office where the goods are declared – 
based on the actual facts – to decide on an additional tare if packaging is not sufficient. 
The importer has the right to appeal against such a decision. 
• Legal basis for this regulation is found in ar ticle 2, para 3 of the Tare Ordinance (CCFL 
632.13) (see below). 
Article 2 Clearance according to Gross Weight:  
1. Goods whose packaging offers sufficient prot ection against damage in transit are cleared 
according to their gross weight. 
2.  Unpacked goods, or goods whose packaging  does not offer sufficient protection against 
damage in transit, are subject to an additiona l tare. The rates for calculating the additional 
tare are given in the Annex. 
3.  The issue of whether packaging offers suffi cient protection against damage in transit is 
assessed in accordance with the requirements applicable to the type of transport in 
question. 
a) Customs valuation 
b) Rules of origin 
(ECUADOR):  
En el párrafo 18 se señala que para el caso de las mercancías con derecho a trato preferencial, la 
declaración de aduana debe ir acompañad a de un certificado de origen válido. 
Question: ¿Cuáles son los requisitos para que el certific ado de origen sea considerado como válido? 
Answer: 
The certificates of origin Form A must comply with the rules of origin laid down in the Swiss Ordinance governing the scheme of the Gen eralized System of Preferences (RS 946.39, 
http://www.admin.ch/ch/f/rs/946_39/ ; especially articl es 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30) 
(texts of the Swiss Ordinances are only available in French, German or Italian). 
The Form A itself must comply with th e prescriptions laid down by UNCTAD 
(http://www.unctad.org/sections/gsp/docs/gsp_for m_a_en.pdf, http://www.unctad.org/en/docs/ 
tdbgspform3_en.pdf and http://www.unctad.org/ Templates/Page.asp?intItemID=4393&lang=1). 
In general all the boxes of the Form A have to be filled in with the exception of boxes no. 2, 3, 4 
(for official use only) and 5. The only two orig in criteria accepted in box 8 (as mentioned under 
Point III (b)(3) on the back of the Form A) are e ither:  (1) "P" or (2) "W" followed by the correct 
four-digit tariff heading. 
Form A will also be accepted if – as importing country in  box 12 – is declared the EU or an          
EU-member state or Norway.  
The Form A must have been issued by a notified governmental authority 
(http://www.unctad.org/Templates/Page.asp?int ItemID=4394&lang=1 and in conformity of 
article 43 of the above mentioned Swiss Ordina nce http://www.admin.ch/ch/f/rs/946_39/a43.html). WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 64  
 
  (EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES):  
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 42,  para. 18  
The EC notes that in Paragraph 18 only transport to third countries is mentioned.  
Question:  Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein provide information on the mentioned Ordinance? 
Answer: 
The only ordinance covering preferential rules of origin is RS 946.39. For third countries, 
preferential rules of origin are only speci fied in the respective free trade agreements.  
The EC notes that in Paragraph 18 only transport to third countries is mentioned. 
Question:  Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein explain the lack of reference to other requirements 
laid down in rules of origin?  
Answer: 
It is without knowledge of Switzerland and Liech tenstein why the report by the WTO Secretariat 
only points out one single requirement. 
Further information on all requirements can be found either in the legal text 
http://www.admin.ch/ch/f/rs/946_39/index.html or  in the GSP Handbook on the Scheme of 
Switzerland issued by UNCTAD. Switzerland and Liech tenstein also refer to the response given to a 
respective question of Ecuador on the matter of the respective certificate of origin within this trade 
policy review. 
Comments to WTO Secretariat:
 
The EC would suggest introducing two corrections  to the report, in particular regarding 
paragraph 20: 
"In 2005, rules of origin applied in trade between  the EC and the EFTA states were amended in order 
to adapt them to the pan-Eu ro-Mediterranean cumulation model (Chapter II(4)(ii)(a)).   
And paragraph 22: 
"The only fundamental difference is the full cumula tion, which is only provided for within the EEA" 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 43, para. 19 
The EC notes that the preferential rules of origin in  general require a fairly high degree of minimum 
local content (50%-70%).   
Question:  In this regard, could Switzerland and Liechtenst ein please indicate the utilisation rate of 
its LDC Duty Free Quota Free scheme, i.e. what percentage of Least Developed Country imports into 
Switzerland and Lichtenstein are actually co vered by the Duty Free Quota Free regime? 
Answer: 
The average utilization rate of the Duty Free Qu ota Free regime so far is at approx. 65-70% and 
varying from country to country.  
For agricultural products (HS chapters 1-24), the difference between the preferential tariff and the 
MFN tariff is higher than for non-agricultu ral products (HS chapters 25-97). Therefore, for 
agricultural products, the utilizatio n rate is as high as 90%. 
The report also states that the rules of orig in governing imports under GSP schemes are being 
revised.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 65 
 
 
  Question: Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein clarify this statement? Is it intended as a reference to 
the EC's planned reform of GSP rules of origin?  
Answer: 
For producers in GSP beneficiary countries, harmoni zed rules of origin are of utmost importance 
in order not to confuse producers with different regul ations. Therefore, in an exchange of letters, 
Norway, the EC and Switzerland and Liechtenstein agreed to apply similar GSP rules of origin 
(entry into force on 19 July 2002) in order to harmonize their schemes and to facilitate the 
application by producers in beneficiary countries. Fu rthermore, Switzerland is committed to simply 
its preferential rules of origin. In order to keep  harmonized GSP rules of origin within Europe, 
Switzerland and Liechtenstein are currently asse ssing the EC's planned reform of GSP rules of 
origin.  
(iii) Tariffs  
(COLOMBIA):  
25. De acuerdo a la Ley Federal sobre el Arancel de  Aduanas, el Consejo Federal puede modificar los 
aranceles aplicables en la Unión Adua nera cuando se considere necesario.  
Question: ¿Específicamente en que casos o situacion es se considera necesario? ¿A Qué tipo de 
evaluación es sometido estos casos, que criterios se ti enen en cuenta para modificarlos? el aumento  
de aranceles aplica a terceros países  y  puede afectar las preferencias otorgadas por Suiza 
bilateralmente? 
Answer: 
Such measures are in principle granted case by case on an erga omnes basis. Preferences granted 
to third countries are not affected by such measur es, as conditions of import are stipulated in the 
respective free trade agreements.  
(a) General features 
(INDIA): 
Many of the tariff lines of Switzerland have non Ad  valorem components. These include composite, 
specific and seasonal tariff lines.  
Question: Whether any conversion guidelines to Ad-Valo rem tariffs are available for such lines? 
What are Switzerland's plans to switch to  Ad-valorem tariffs on these lines? 
Answer: 
With regard to Agriculture, Switzerland has only sp ecific tariffs. Modalities for tariff simplification 
are currently being negotiated in the Doha Round. Switzerland is committed to fully implement the 
result of these negotiations, also with  regard to tariff simplification.  
Question:  Out of the  total agricultural tariff  lines,  India would like to be informed about the exact 
numbers which are having purely Ad valorem tariffs , Composite tariffs, Spec ific tariffs and Seasonal 
tariffs. 
Answer: 
All Swiss agricultural tariff lines are specific. Cert ain agricultural products are subject to seasonal 
protection, mostly when the harvesting period is short and these products can not be stocked for a 
long time. In most cases, seaso nal protection results from the sea sonal application of the relevant 
tariff quota, and not a seasonally changing tariff. Regarding coverage, the system of seasonal tariff 
quotas applies mainly to fruit, vegetables, and cut flowers . WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 66  
 
  (b) The MFN tariff  
(Hong Kong):  
Tariffs (WT/TPR/S/208, P. 45-47, Paras. 30-31, and Table III.2) 
1.  We appreciate that Switzerland and Liechtenstein  have bound 99% of all tariff lines and glad to 
note that generally low tariff rates are applied to non-agricultural products.  In 2008, the ad valorem 
equivalent of tariffs on non-agri cultural products is 2% (a slight decrease from 2.3% in 2004).  
However, we note that some tariff peaks apply to  certain non-agricultural pr oducts, including textiles 
and clothing items, the tariff rates of which are over 20% and as high as 121.6%.   
Question:   We wish to know if Switzerland has any plan to reduce such tariff peaks.  
Answer: 
The tariff of 121.6% applies presumably to worn clothes and other worn articles classified under 
HS 6309.00, which have no economic value. Accordin g to our national tariff these worn clothes are 
used for the recovery of fibres or the manufactu re of cleaning rags. As Switzerland has only 
specific duties, the ad valorem eq uivalent can vary a lot. In 20 07, Switzerland imported from the 
whole world for CHF 224'000 (equal to 206 tons) and from Hong Kong, China CHF 87 or 1 kg. In 
2007, the average tariff rate paid by Hong Kong was 2.3%. 
The results of the current Doha negotiations will determine how progress can be achieved in this 
area. In any case, the coefficient of the Swiss formula will set the maximum tariff level once the 
Ministers agree to the NAMA m odalities in the Doha Round. 
2.  We also note that around 42% of Switzerland 's tariff lines bear non-zero applied "nuisance rates" 
of less than 2%.   
Question:  Does Switzerland have plans to remove such  rates for trade facilitation purpose?  
Answer: 
In Switzerland, imports are facilitated by quick an d efficient customs procedures as well as by low 
customs duties on average on manufactured goods. Fo r Switzerland, clearly, high tariffs, not low 
ones, represent a nuisance for exporters. As for the question of the elimination of nuisance duties, 
the results of the current Doha negotiations will determine how progress can be achieved in this 
area. 
(c) Tariff preferences 
(EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES): 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 50, para. 36 
Question: 2. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein please clarify the coverage of its preferential 
regime towards Least Developed Countries: the WT O Secretariat report mentions 99.6% coverage for 
agricultural products, with an exception being made for sugar and 100% coverage for non-
agricultural products? 
Answer: 
Switzerland and Liechtenstein have introduced full duty free quota free market access for Least 
Developed Countries. In line with the arrangements within the EC's GSP, a gradual reduction to 
zero tariff is foreseen for sugar and broken rice fo r feedstuff (with the same reduction rates as 
foreseen in the GSP of the EC, without any quot a). Zero tariff for sugar will be achieved by 
1 July 2009, for broken rice for feedstuff by 1 September 2009.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 67 
 
 
  Question:  3. Assuming that these percentages are in terms of tariff lines, what would be the 
corresponding coverage in terms of trade?    
Answer: 
In 2007, 98.75% of all imports from LDC were duty  free. The estimation for 2008 is that 99.75% of 
all imports will be duty free. Trade with LDC almo st tripled from 2000 to 2007 (increase by 270%). 
(ECUADOR): 
En el párrafo 36 se establece que con arreglo a su Sistema Generalizado de Preferencias (SGP), Suiza 
y Liechtenstein otorgan un trato arancelario pref erencial no recíproco a los países que reúnen las 
condiciones requeridas. 
Question: ¿Podría dar mayor especificar las condici ones que los países requieren para recibir el 
SGP? 
Answer: 
All developing countries are eligible  for GSP treatment if they have not yet attained a high level of 
development. A high level of development is attained  if the countries and territories are no longer 
classified in the list of beneficiaries of development aid of the Development Assistance Committee 
(DAC) of the OECD. Duty free quota free market access is granted to least developed countries 
according to the definition of the UN-ECOSOC.  
(iv) Tariff exemptions and  reductions  
(COLOMBIA):  
39. En este aparte se menciona que pueden impor tarse con derechos re ducidos determinados 
productos, según su uso final. Se trata principa lmente de productos agrícolas (cereales, semillas 
oleaginosas y aceites alimenticios) y papel.   
Questions: ¿Qué metodología se emplea para calcular esta reducción arancelaria? ¿Esta reducción 
es permanente? ¿Cuál es el listado de productos agrícolas que se beneficiarían de esta reducción? 
Answer: 
As stated, certain products are, depending on thei r end use, subject to reduced tariff rates. These 
products are either mentioned by the tariff law or contained in annex 1 of the Ordonnance du DFF 
sur les marchandises bénéficiant d'allégements douaniers selon leur emploi. The list contained in the ordinance as well as the applied tariff rate ca n be changed by modification of the mentioned 
ordinance by the Department of Finance. In order to modify the ordinance, the Department has to 
bring proof of the economic necessity of the modi fication. This is normally the case if the import 
price of the raw product after application of the tariff is not proportional to  the value of the end 
product. 
(v) Other duties, taxes, and charges  
(ECUADOR): 
En el párrafo 41 se señala que a pesar de que en la Ronda Uruguay, Suiza y Liechtenstein 
consolidaron en cero "los demás derechos y cargas"  aplicables a las importaciones, se perciben tasas 
con respecto a las importaciones de mercancías suje tas a prescripciones de constitución de reservas 
obligatorias. 
Question: ¿Podría dar mayores detalles acerca del fu ndamento para percibir estas tasas con 
respecto a las importaciones de mercancías suje tas a prescripciones de constitución de reservas 
obligatorias? WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 68  
 
  Answer: 
During the Uruguay Round we tarified contribu tions to the guarantee fund for the following 
agricultural products: sugar, oils and fats, fo dder, cereals for food and seeds. The result was a 
custom duty consolidated in our lists of WTO commitments. 
At present, the customs duties are levied in two stages: one bit of the cake is perceived by the 
customs and the other bit by "Réservesuisse" in ord er to finance mandatory stockholding. The total 
of the cake does not exceed the bound duty. We do not levy any other tax or charge as this approach would not be conform to our commitm ents having bound this heading to zero. 
In order to improve the availability of informatio n in a transparent manner, it was decided to add 
additional information in the Swiss Tariff (TARES ) indicating the internet link of "Réservesuisse" 
where one can find the amount of the two pieces of the cake that constitute the customs duty. This 
information, which is already available on the website of "Réservesuisse", will be introduced from 
1 January 2009 in the TARES. Thus, the importer will be able to check quickly all relevant 
information concerning the total levy customs. 
The whole system of funding of mandatory stockholding stocks is currently under review.  
(vi) Import prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing  
(a) Import prohibitions and restrictions 
(b) Import licensing 
Non-automatic licensing 
Automatic licensing  
(vii) Compulsory reserve stock  
(viii)  Local-content and loca l-purchase requirements  
(ix) Contingency measures  
(INDIA): 
Question: India would like to know the extent of use of SSG provisions by Switzerland. 
Answer: 
The last and only time Switzerland invoked the price-based special safeguard provisions in 
agriculture was in May 1999 to limit a surge in im ports of pork meat, a sensitive product for our 
agriculture (see G/AG/N/CHE/18 of 26 May 1999). 
(x) Standards and other technical requirements  
(HONG KONG):   
Standards and other technical requirements (WT/TPR/S/208, P. 57-64, Paras. 70-98) 
Question:   3. We understand that Switzerland is consid ering to amend the requirement of "Swiss 
Made" label for watches, by raising its local conten t requirement.  We would like to know the details 
of the proposed amendment and also the latest development. 
Answer: 
After concluding a consultation process with interested stakeholders, the Swiss Government 
mandated on October 15, 2008 the preparation of a draft amendment proposal aimed at the  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 69 
 
 
  following two main goals:  firstly, protection for "Made in Switzerland" designations and the Swiss 
Cross should be strengthened, and, secondly, regulations regarding "Made in Switzerland" 
designations and the Swiss Cross should be form ulated more precisely in order to enhance legal 
certainty and clarity.  The criteria are intended to  apply to all products, including watches.  
Earlier, in June 2007, the Federation of the Swiss watch industry had proposed to amend the 
Swiss-Made Ordinance for watches to raise its lo cal content requirement. T aking into account the 
work on the draft amendment proposal referred to above, the Swiss Government made clear that 
the consideration of any change of this specific watch ordinance will depend on the progress –and would have to be based on – the above-mentio ned broader draft amendm ent proposal. Thus, the 
Swiss-Made Ordinance for watches would only be reviewed and – if necessary – amended in 
accordance with the federal legislative amendmen t for trademarks and indications of source once 
the latter would have been passed.  
The Federal Council will decide by the end of 200 9 whether or not it will present the proposal for a 
legislative amendment to the parliament, where its eventual approval would again take its time. The 
drafting process of the legislative amendment proposal  is at too early a stage to inform, at this 
moment in time, in a detailed manner on po ssible future contents of such an amendment.  
(a) Standardization, testing, and certification 
(MEXICO):  
Question:  En el párrafo 71 se menciona que la ley suiza regula otros Reglamentos: ¿Nos podría 
mencionar qué otros Reglamentos Técnicos son los que regula?  Si las normas técnicas no son 
iniciadas por el gobierno ¿se deja esta actividad en manos del sector privado y el gobierno sólo 
revisa el resultado final  desde la esfera de la  LETC? ¿Interviene el gobierno o sanciona en alguna 
otra etapa? 
Answer: 
The federal Law on Technical Barriers to Trade (L ETC) sets general rules for the law-making in 
the field of all technical regulations. Standardizati on is completely in the hands of private bodies, 
which have accepted the WTO TBT Code of Good Practice for the Preparation, Adoption and 
Application of Standards. The compliance with standards is  voluntary. For this reason,              
non-compliance is not sanctioned. There is no need  for the government to revise the final standard. 
If a standard is referred to in a technical regula tion, this regulation is notified under the WTO TBT 
Agreement. 
Question:  Párrafo 73. ¿Cómo es el proceso de la  Evaluación de la Conformidad? ¿Por qué 
únicamente los reglamentos son revisados por el Parlamento cuando hay un interés público? ¿Existe 
un criterio económico para discriminar la revisión de reglamentos por parte del Parlamento y cuál 
sería? 
Answer:  
The process of establishing regulations with regard to conformity assessments is the same as the 
one described in paragraph 73. The parliament  must approve the delegation of power for 
establishing technical regulations on  the Federal Council. It would be too complicated and        
time-consuming to submit all technical regulations  to the parliament even if they are not of 
political relevance (i.e. no public interests are at stake). If important economic interests were at 
stake, approval by the parliament would be needed.  
Question:  Párrafo 76. ¿Cuál es el mecanismo par a otorgar el reconocimiento cuando los 
reglamentos técnicos de ambas partes no son equivalentes? WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 70  
 
  Answer:  
In Switzerland, test reports or conformity certificat es by foreign organizations are accepted if it can 
be shown that they meet Swiss requirements, i.e. the same level of protection with regard to the public interests.  The foreign organizations must ha ve qualifications equivalent to those required in 
Switzerland.  
Question: Párrafo 80. Ante la decisión de no tener controles aduanales para verificar el 
cumplimiento de reglamentos técnicos, ¿Cuál es el esquema para verificar la correcta operación de 
los instrumentos de medición en campo? ¿Cómo se lleva el registro de todos los instrumentos de 
medición que ingresan a Suiza? 
Answer: 
All regulated measuring instruments have to be verified in a certain period by Swiss verification 
offices. There is no registration of new measuring instruments.  
(b) Labelling, marking, and packaging 
(MEXICO):  
Question:  Párrafo 82. ¿Cómo verifican la veracidad de la información señalada en el etiquetado? 
¿Cuál es el esquema para determinar el  contenido neto de los productos? 
Answer: 
Verification offices periodically cont rol the pre-packages and the labels.   
(CANADA): 
Paragraph 82 of the Secretariat Report notes that im ports of meat produced in a manner prohibited in 
Switzerland must be labelled accordingly. 
Question:  6. Could Switzerland provide the rationale for these labelling requirements and explain the 
legitimate objective these requirements aim to achieve? 
Answer: 
The legitimate objective pursued is informatio n of the consumers and prevention of deceptive 
practices. 
Question:  7. Could Switzerland please explain how these requirements are consistent with the WTO 
TBT Agreement? 
Answer: 
The labeling of banned production measures pursues a legitimate objective in terms of Article 2.2 
of the TBT Agreement: information of the cons umers and prevention of deceptive practices. The 
Swiss labeling requirement is a less trade restrictive alternative to an import ban of meat produced 
with hormones, antibiotics and other antimicrobial  substances such as performance stimulators. 
Imported agricultural products do not have to m eet the more stringent Swiss domestic production 
regulations and prohibitions; and if the product  was produced in a country with equivalent 
production prohibitions, no labeling is required. Import products are therefore accorded a more 
favourable treatment than that accorded to like products of national origin. For this reason the 
labeling requirement does not constitute a means of arbitrary or unjustifiable discrimination 
between countries nor a disguised rest riction on international trade.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 71 
 
 
  Specific to the mandatory labelling for eggs produced by the rearing of hens in battery cages. 
Question: 8. Could Switzerland please clarify the legitimate objective, under TBT Article 2.2, that 
Switzerland seeks to achieve through the mandatory l abelling for eggs produced by the rearing of 
hens in battery cages, and provide available scien tific and technical informa tion that demonstrates 
how this measure addresses this objective? 
Answer: 
The legitimate objective pursued is informatio n of the consumers and prevention of deceptive 
practices. The legal basis of this labeling requiremen t is Article 18 of the Swiss Law on Agriculture. 
Numerous surveys have revealed that the consumers de sire this information. In Switzerland the 
prescriptions for the caging of hens are so strict, that no hens are reared in battery cages. If the 
product was produced in a country with equivalent  production prohibitions, no labeling is required. 
Import products are therefore acco rded a more favourable treatment than that accorded to like 
products of national origin. For this reason the labeling requirement does not constitute a means of 
arbitrary or unjustifiable discrimination between  countries nor a disguised restriction on 
international trade. 
Question:  9.  Could Switzerland detail the risks that non-fulfillment of this measure would pose? 
Answer: 
The risk of non-fulfillment is that consumers wo uld not be able to make an informed choice. 
Question:  10. Could Switzerland indicate whether or not  a subsidy is provided to promote free 
ranged poultry production in Switzerland? 
Answer: 
Animal Welfare is an important pillar of Swiss Agri cultural Policy. Article 104 3. B) of the Federal 
Constitution, which reproduces the concept of mul tifunctionality, calls for the Confederation to 
create incentives to produce in an animal-friendly  manner. Various surveys have shown that the 
Swiss Population considers this one of the most  important goals for the agricultural sector to 
achieve. Indeed, Switzerland has high compulsory animal welfare standards and, additionally, 
supports animal-friendly raising of various speci es, including poultry. The Ordonnance sur les 
programmes éthologiques (RS 910.132.4) describes the relevant modalities and conditions in more 
detail. Two programmes have to be mentioned in  particular, namely the programme to support 
particularly animal-friendly stabu lation (SST) and the programme to encourage regular fresh air 
sorties of livestock (RAUS). 
(c) Sanitary and phytosanitary measures 
(USA):   
Page 63, paragraph 93:   
Question:  The Secretariat report states that the cu ltivation of genetically modified organisms and 
imports of genetically modified animals were banned for a five-year period until 2010.  In light of 
Switzerland's obligations under the WTO SPS Agreem ent, what is Switzerland's scientific basis for 
such a ban?  In this paragraph, the Secretariat also  indicates that the competent Federal authorities 
must authorize the use and commercialization of gene tically modified organisms.   Typically, how long 
is the authorization process for a biotech crop for f eed or food use or cultivation?  When last did  
Switzerland grant  an authorization? WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 72  
 
  Answer: 
In 2005, 55.7 per cent of the Swiss Population and the majority of cantons adopted the moratorium on cultivation of GMO crops. The Moratorium does only apply to cultivation of genetically 
modified organisms and to the impor t of genetically modified livestock , not to imports of genetically 
modified food nor to research. Before the Morato rium entered into force,  there have been no 
applications for the cultivation of GMO crops. Co ncerning GMOs for human food, the last import 
license was issued in 2000. Since applications are so scarce, nothing can be said about the duration 
of the application process. Importers perceive little or no demand for GMO food. With regard to 
GMO feed, the automatic import licence for maize and soya is coupled to the import regime as 
applied by the EC. Imports of GMO feed am ount to 0.01% of total feed imports. 
(CANADA): 
Question: 11. Could Switzerland provide rationale for the legitimate objective their policy regarding 
the labelling of GMO products aims to achieve? 
Answer: 
The legitimate objective for the labelling policy is  to prevent deceit and gi ve consumers the option 
to make an informed choice. 
Question: 12. Could Switzerland please explain how th e policy regarding genetically modified 
products conforms to Swiss international comm itments in removing technical barriers to trade? 
Answer: 
In 2005, 55.7 per cent of the Swiss Population and the majority of cantons adopted the moratorium on cultivation of GMO crops. The Moratorium does only apply to cultivation of genetically 
modified organisms in Switzerland and to the im port of genetically modified livestock, not to 
imports of genetically modified food nor to research . Concerning the import of genetically modified 
food an authorization is required. 
Question: 13. Could Switzerland outline the steps that a re necessary for a GMO to  be authorized for 
use and commercialization in Switzerland (for food, feed and processing)? 
Answer: 
The necessary steps for commercia lization of GMOs are outlined in detail in the Ordonnance sur 
l'utilisation d'organismes dans l'environneme nt (RS 814.911). Article 28 describes the 
authorization procedure, and the different elemen ts an application file has to contain. These 
documents include a technical file (identical to  the one required for commercialization within the 
EC), results of existing research on the concerned organisms and their safety for humans and the 
environment, earlier commercializ ation permits, a risk evaluation, a surveillance plan on how the 
described risks are monitored, a discussion of the weighing of interested demonstrating that the 
genetical modification has not compromised the dignity of the creature (for both plants and animals), proposals for packaging, labeling and consum er informations; proof that all safety and 
security conditions have been fulfilled. 
The authorization procedure for foods derived from  GMOs is laid down in the Ordonnance sur les 
denrées alimentaires et les objets usuels (ODAlO Us, RS 817.02) and the Ordonnance du DFI sur 
les denrées alimentaires génétiquement modifi ées (ODAlGM, RS 817.022.51). Authorization may 
be granted if hazards of the product for humans,  animals and the environment can be excluded 
according to the current state of scientific kn owledge presented in a dossier submitted by the 
applicant. The requirements concerning the dossier are laid down in Annex 1 of the ODAlGM. 
They are in line with the Codex Alimentarius principles and guidelines concerning foods derived 
from biotechnology.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 73 
 
 
  Question: 14. Could Switzerland indicate which governme nt department is the national competent 
authority that is responsible for the authorization of GMOs? 
Answer: 
The authorizations for the commercialization of GM Os are issued by different agencies, depending 
on the product concerned. Article 26 of the Ordonnance sur l'utilisation d'organismes dans 
l'environnement (RS 814.911) lists  in detail the leading competen t government agencies for each 
product and the applicable legislation for the a pplication process. For pesticides, feed, seed, 
fertilizer, the Office for Agriculture (OFAG) is th e leading competent authority. For Food that are 
GMOs or are derived from GMOs, and biocidal products, the Federa l Office of Public Health is the 
leading competent authority. For the authorisation of living modified organisms to be used as 
foods, consent of the Federal Office for the Environment is required. Applications for 
pharmaceuticals have to be addressed either to Swi ssmedic (for human use) or the Veterinary 
Office (for veterinary use). For all other products, the Office for the Enviro nment is competent. 
Question: 15. Could Switzerland provide a list of what GMOs have been authorized for use by the 
competent authority? 
Answer: 
Food and Feed: 
• Soybean Line 40-3-2 (Roundup Ready). 
• Maize lines Bt176, Bt11 and MON810. 
Feed: 
• Gluten de maïs, aliment de gluten de maïs et farine de rafles de maïs: T25, DAS1507, 
DAS1507xMON603, DAS59122, GA21, MON863, NK603, NK603xMON810. 
• Tourteaux d'extraction  de soja et tourteaux de pression de soja: A2704-12. 
Paragraph 94 of the Secretariat Report notes that im ports of meat produced in a manner prohibited in 
Switzerland must be labelled accordingly. 
Question: 16. Could Switzerland provide the rationale for these labelling requirements and explain 
how these requirements aim to protect human health or safety? 
Answer: 
These requirements are not concerned with human or  animal health or safety issues. The objective 
of the labeling requirement is to permit imports of products produced in a way that is prohibited in 
Switzerland while protecting consumers from deceptive practices and giving them all the necessary 
information in order to make an informed choi ce. Since the proposed regulation was not notified 
under the SPS Agreement and since no human, animal or  plant life or health risk is involved, the 
Swiss government does not deem it necessary to cond uct any explanation of the level of "risk". 
Question: 17. Could Switzerland please explain how these re quirements are consistent with the WTO 
SPS Agreement? 
Answer: 
Please refer to the answer to question 7. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 74  
 
  Specific to the mandatory labelling for eggs produced by the rearing of hens in battery cages which is 
repeated under SPS measures. Canada notes that th is banned production method was also notified to 
the WTO as a SPS measure (G/SPS/N/CHE/15). 
Question: 18. Canada would like Switzerland to confirm whet her or not they consider this to be a SPS 
measure and if so to clarify what risk to human or animal health it intends to address? 
Answer: 
The objective of the labeling requirement is to permit  imports of products produced in a way that is 
prohibited in Switzerland while protecting consumers from deceptive practices and giving them all 
the necessary information in ord er to make an informed choice. Swiss consumers are very sensitive 
to questions of animal welfare. The measure was notified under the TBT and for transparency 
reasons under the SPS Agreement too. 
(xi) Government procurement  
(COLOMBIA):  
100. Los compromisos de Suiza en virtud de los acuerdos internacionales sobre contratación pública 
han sido incorporados a su legislación nacional a nivel federal (administración central), y a nivel 
subfederal (cantonal y municipal).  A nivel federal,  la transposición del ACP a la legislación federal 
suiza se hizo mediante la Ley Federal sobre cont ratación pública de 1994 (al 1 de enero de 2008) y su 
Ordenanza de 1995, que establece normas detalladas para  la contratación por debajo y por encima de 
los umbrales del ACP.  A nivel subfederal, los 26 cantones suizos operan con arreglo al Concordato 
Intercantonal de 1994 (acuerdo revisado en 2001) sobre contratación pública, y sus directivas 
ejecutivas.  Los compromisos de Suiza en virtud del ACP no son aplicables a la contratación por los 
ferrocarriles federales y la Administración Postal Sui za.  Las exclusiones de la cobertura, por motivos 
de seguridad, también son posibles para la cont ratación por empresas de propiedad estatal.  Suiza 
formuló reservas sobre la aplicación del ACP a otros signatarios que no habían otorgado un acceso comparable y efectivo a las empresas suizas en de terminadas actividades.  En las negociaciones en 
curso sobre contratación pública, en 2006 Suiza presentó  una oferta inicial, que liberalizaría más su 
régimen de contratación pública. 
Question:  En este contexto Colombia desea conocer ¿cuáles son las mejoras en acceso a mercados 
que ha propuesto Suiza en el marco de las negoc iaciones del ACP de la OMC? ¿Podría cuantificar 
estas mejoras en términos de valor de contratos? 
Answer: 
Switzerland's 2006 initial offer in the field of government procurement has been revised on November 7, 2008. It is still a proposal and can anytime be modified. It has not been quantified. In the view of Switzerland, the main contribution of that offer will be the move from specific commitments to more generic, dynamic und futu re oriented concepts of coverage. Switzerland 
proposes also an extension of covered entities in annex 1 to the supreme court and additional 
services in the list of covered services.   
(CANADA): 
The Secretariat Report states that the GPA is in tegrated into the 1994 Federal Law and its 1995 
Ordinance, which establishes detailed rules for procurement below and above GPA thresholds. 
Question:  Could Switzerland please provide the website lin ks that allows suppliers to view all such 
detailed rules and all other directives, regulations , or guidelines applied by procurement authorities 
at all levels of government?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 75 
 
 
  Answer: 
Links for the federal level:  http://www.bbl.adm in.ch/dokumentation/00702 /index.html?lang=fr;  
https://www.shab.ch/. 
Link for the subterritorial level: http: //www.bpuk.ch/index/extern/index_fr.htm;  
https://www.simap.ch/. 
The Secretariat Report indicates that, "neither th e law nor the ordinance provide for preferential 
treatment for Swiss suppliers." 
Question: Could Switzerland please explain if this is the case for procurements that are both above 
and below relevant GPA thresholds and for all entities,  regardless of whether th ey are covered in the 
GPA? 
Answer: 
The evaluation of the Secretariat applies to pr ocurements handled above and below relevant GPA 
threshold. Above the thresholds, Switzerland is bound by the commitments of non discrimination 
and national treatment of the GPA. Below the thresholds, the Swiss legislation does not foresee 
rules providing preferential trea tment to national suppliers.  
Question: Does Switzerland have any promotion or pr otection measures for its suppliers in 
government procurement? 
Answer: 
In Switzerland, government procurement is not cons idered as the appropriate tool to promote or to 
protect the interests of national suppliers or to consolidate structures and avoid structural 
adjustments. Despite interventions calling for the duplication of some legislations and programs 
from abroad, the Swiss Authorities did not work out specific directives or legislations designed for 
example to create preferential treatments of Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), etc.  
Question: Please explain in detail all such measures and provide the links to websites with detail on 
those measures. 
Answer: 
See answer to question just above. 
(3) MEASURES DIRECTLY AFFECTING EXPORTS  
(i) Export procedures  
(ii) Export prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing  
(iii) Export taxes, charges, and levies  
(iv) Duty and tax concessions  
(v) Expo rt subsidies  
(THAILAND):  
Paragraph 120, page 68  
Question: 1. Could Switzerland please elaborate more on how the Price Compensation Mechanism 
works?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 76  
 
  Answer: 
The Price Compensation Mechanism is based on the federal law on imports and exports of 
processed agricultural products (Loi fédéra le du 13 décembre 1974 sur l'importation et 
l'exportation de produits agricoles transformés). The mechanism described therein aims to balance 
price differences between domestic and foreign pri ces for processed agricultural products, based on 
the respective raw product content.  
Question: 2. Could Switzerland please identify its most recent WTO notification of the Price 
Compensation Mechanism?  Please provide deta ils on any changes to the Price Compensation 
Mechanism since the most recent notification.  
Answer: 
Switzerland has notified its export subsidy co mmitments for 2005 and 2006 (see Notification 
G/AG/N/CHE/42 dated 25 March 2008 and G/AG/N/C HE/42/Corr.1, dated 16 September 2008). No 
changes subject to the mechanism itself have been undertaken since. 
Question: 3. How is the Price Compensation Mechanism related to Switzerland's export subsidies, 
and how is it calculated under Swit zerland's export subsidies scheme? 
Answer: 
The federal law on imports and exports of pr ocessed agricultural products is subject to 
Switzerland's export subsidy commitments under th e WTO Agreement of Agriculture and notified 
consequently.  
Question: 4. As export subsidies for basic agricultural pr oducts are to be phased out by January 2010, 
will Switzerland phase out the Price Compensation Mechanism by 2010? 
Answer: 
Switzerland remains fully committed to the decisi ons of the Hong Kong Ministerial Conference, 
notably to Para 6 of the Ministerial Declaration (see WT/MIN(05)/DEC of 22 December 2005).  
(ECUADOR): 
El párrafo 120 indica que como parte del proceso act ual de reformas del sector agropecuario, Suiza ha 
previsto suprimir gradualmente las subvenciones a la exportación para los productos agropecuarios 
básicos a más tardar en enero de 2010. 
Question: ¿Una vez que se eliminen las subvencion es a la exportación para los productos 
agropecuarios básicos en enero de  2010, se tiene planificado dotar a est e sector de algún otro tipo de 
medidas de apoyo? 
Answer: 
As stated, Switzerland is phasing out all export  subsidies on basic agricultural products by 
January 2010. At the moment, the Swiss gover nment does not plan to replace these support 
measures with new programs. Nevertheless, th e commitment levels as consolidated in the 
LIX schedule remain valid until the implemen tation of the results of the Doha Round. 
(vi) Other export assistance  
(ARGENTINA):  
En el párrafo 127 el informe menciona que en 2007 han entrado en vigor una nueva legislación sobre 
seguros de riesgos de exportación: la Ley Federa l sobre el seguro suizo contra los riesgos de 
exportación que reemplaza a la Ley sobre ga rantías de riesgos de exportación de 1958.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 77 
 
 
  Question:  ¿Cuáles son los cambios que introduce esta nueva ley? 
Answer: 
The Swiss Export Risk Insurance Act (SERV-G) of 16 December 2005 and the Swiss Export Risk Insurance Ordinance (SERV-V) of 24 October 2006 are the statutory basis for the establishment 
and operation of the Swiss Export Risk Insura nce (SERV); SERV replaced as of 1 January 2007 
the Swiss Export Risk Guarantee (ERG).  ERG wa s a fund within the general account of the 
Federal government managed by a tripartite and interministerial commission; SERV is an independent agency managed by a board of directors nominated by the Federal Council. 
The transition from ERG to SERV provided first of  all the opportunity to streamline the insurance 
products provided to Swiss exporters. The one majo r change was the introduction of so called new 
Private Buyer Risk (PBR) insurance, in order to align the range of insurances available to Swiss 
exporters with the one available to most other e xporters from developed economies. PBR  is the risk 
of insolvency or unwillingness to pay (delcredere ri sk) of the private buyer or guarantor. Under 
ERG only PBR guaranteed by a bank could be insured, whereas SERV may directly insure the PBR of the private buyer. 
(4) M
EASURES AFFECTING PRODUCTION AND TRADE  
(i) Incentives and other assistance  
(ARGENTINA):   
En el párrafo 128 el informe menciona que en 200 8 se llevó a cabo una revisión de la Ley Suiza sobre 
Subvenciones, que estipula los principales criterios y procedimientos aplicables para la concesión de 
subvenciones a nivel federal. En dicha revisi ón se evaluaron unas 230 subvenciones y se concluyó 
que alrededor de 70 programas de  subvenciones deben suspenderse o revisarse, ya sea porque son 
innecesarios o bien por haber resultado ineficientes para alcanzar los objetivos del programa.  
Question:  ¿Cuáles son estos 70 programas y cuando se prevé su eliminación o revisión? 
Answer: 
There was no revision of the Swiss Law on Subsidies but an examination of subsidies. It contains 
detailed examination results for -230 subsidies (out of -360 subsidies), showing need for action with 
respect to -70 subsidies. The recommended meas ures can be divided into two groups:  
(a)  In various fields of activity the examinatio n showed need for structural reforms, and the 
 Federal Council charged the departments co ncerned to examine possible measures.  
(b)  With respect to about 30 subsidies the Federal Council decided abandonment or reduction. 
 About 1/3 of these measures have already been implemented. 
Detailed information on individual measures and timetables can be found in annex 1 of the report 
(annex 1).  
En el párrafo 130 el informe menciona que Su iza otorga subvenciones a zonas en "renovación 
económica", cuyo objetivo es apoyar a las empresas pr ivadas con el fin de crear  y mantener el empleo 
en esas zonas. 
Question:  ¿En qué consisten estas subvenciones?  
Answer: 
These grants consist in tax reduction. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 78  
 
  Question: ¿Cuáles son los requisitos que debe cump lir una empresa para acceder a las mismas? 
Answer: 
The conditions for a company to bene fit from this instrument are: 
• that the concerned canton agrees at  least an equivalent advantage; 
• the enterprise must carry out an industrial  activity or perform services closely related to 
production; 
• the activities of the enterprise must permit to create new jobs or maintain existing jobs; 
• the project shall be innovative and create adde d value (diversifying the economic activities); 
• the enterprise must be new or an already existing enterprise that undergoes an important 
economic reorganization or that substantially innovates its activities;  
• the project must be located in one of the app lication zones (economic zones which are in re-
designation, economic conditions are unfavou rable) as defined in the Ordinance. 
Question: ¿Cuál ha sido el monto de la ayuda otorgado en el periodo bajo examen y a qué sectores 
económicos ha estado dirigida? 
Answer: 
The support does not consist in the granting of a subs idy but in a reduction of the federal direct tax. 
For 2006, the shortfall of the federal direct tax rais ed to approximately 190 millions Swiss francs. It 
should however be noticed that the companies wh ich benefited from a tax reduction paid more than 
100 million Swiss francs for the federal direct tax. 
Tax reductions are granted to companies involved  in manufacturing or to services linked to 
manufacturing in condition they are located in  an economic area which is covered by the 
ordinance. So the tax reductions are di rected to the secondary and tertiary sector.  
(EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES):   
para.  128 
The WTO Secretariat's report states that the tax re gime applicable to foreign companies includes low 
tax rates applicable in Liechtenstein to foreign companies domiciled but not active in the country. 
Question: Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein explain how such measure may not divert, or cause to 
re-orient, investments from one country to another?  
Answer: 
As far as Switzerland is concerned, the cantonal  tax relief available for holding companies and 
administrative companies domiciled in Switzerland as well as other fiscal rules relevant for 
investments are discussed in detail in Chapter 5 (Investment Regime) of Part II (Trade and 
Investment Regimes). They do not affect production and trade. 
(COLOMBIA):  
128. Dentro de los incentivos y asistencia que so n empleados por Suiza y Liechtenstein  a la 
producción y el comercio existe la ayuda a nivel subfederal.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 79 
 
 
  Question:  ¿Este tipo de subvenciones son adicionales a las ya establecidas a nivel Federal?, ¿Las 
subvenciones a nivel subfederal abarcan el mismo listado de productos subvencionados a nivel Federal? ¿Las subvenciones subfederales pueden de terminar de forma autónoma a que productos y 
en que cuantía beneficiar con esta ayuda?, ¿Qué organismo o institución controla las subvenciones a nivel subfederal?, ¿Cada cuanto tiempo son revisadas estas subvenciones subfederales? 
Answer: 
After elimination of double counts due to contri butions in between the three levels of state, 
subsidies at the different levels are as follow (2006): 
Federal level: Sw F 21 billion 
Cantonal level: Sw F 21 billion 
Communal level: Sw F 6 billion 
D Total: Sw F 48 billion   
At all three levels of state, the largest shares of subs idies go to the following fields of activity: social 
Welfare, education, traffic, general economy.  Specific tasks and responsibilities, however, are 
clearly identified and assigned to only one level each. 
At all three levels federal, cantonal or loca l parliaments are responsible for determining the 
amounts of subsidies. At the cantonal and co mmunal level, subsidies are examined within the 
annual budget and financial planning process. In addition, at the federal level the Swiss Law on 
Subsidies requires a periodical examina tion of all subsidies every 6 years.   
(ECUADOR): 
De acuerdo al párrafo 128, el último informe del Consejo Federal sobre el examen de las 
subvenciones, que se publicó el 30 de mayo de 2008 , recoge los resultados de la evaluación de unas 
230 subvenciones (de un total de 360) y concluye  que alrededor de 70 programas de subvenciones 
deben suspenderse o revisarse, bien porque son inn ecesarios a la luz de los cambios estructurales, bien 
por haber resultado ineficientes para al canzar los objetivos del programa. 
Question: ¿Podría proveer mayor información sobre la s acciones que se tomarán respecto de los 
70 programas de subvenciones que  deben suspenderse o revisarse? 
Answer:  
The examination of subsidies contains detailed ex amination results for -230 subsidies (out of -360 
subsidies), showing need for action with respect to -70 subsidies. The recommended measures can 
be divided into two groups:  
(a) In various fields of activity the examination showed need for structural reforms, and the 
Federal Council charged the departments co ncerned to examine possible measures.  
(b) With respect to about 30 subsidies the Fed eral Council decided abandonment or reduction. 
About 1/3 of these measures have already been implemented. 
Detailed information on individual measures and timetables can be found in annex 1 of the report 
(annex 1). 
(CHINESE TAIPEI):  
(page 71, paragraph 133)  
Domestic producers of high-protein peas, field beans and fibre plant receive a subsidy from the Swiss 
government proportionate to the area under cultivation. Moreover, there are two different types of subsidy for oilseeds (e.g. rapeseed, sunflower seed, and soybeans): direct payments to the producer, 
which are proportionate to the area under cultivation (S w F 1,500 per hectare); and direct payments to WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 80  
 
  the processing plants producing oil for human cons umption and for other uses. On 1 January 2009, 
these subsidies will be reduced to Sw F 1,000 per hect are) for fibre plants, field beans, rape seeds, and 
other field products.  
Question:  Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein please prov ide more details of their subsidy policy for 
oil seeds processing plants? 
Answer: 
The program is not a subsidy. The Federal Counc il has concluded a services provision agreement 
(mandat de prestation) with an organization that helps oil seed producers to improve their 
competitiveness by optimizing value-added and effi cient processing. The program, which was based 
on the "Ordonnance sur les contributions à la su rface et à la transformation dans la culture des 
champs", will be phased out by 30 June 2009.  The maximum amount dispensed was 8 Mio CHF 
per year. 
(ECUADOR): 
En el párrafo 134, se señala que l as subvenciones a las que hace referencia este párrafo se determinan 
en función de las "condiciones del mercado". 
Question: ¿Cuáles son las "condiciones del mercado" bajo las cuáles se determinarían estas 
subvenciones? 
Answer: 
Market conditions refer to the differential  between the Swiss and the world prices. 
(ii) State trading and state-owned  enterprises  
(COLOMBIA):  
141. Teniendo en cuenta que "Alcosuisse" tiene el derecho exclusivo de importar etanol con un 
contenido de alcohol superior al 80% en volumen  y es quien otorga la autorización correspondiente 
para la importación de etanol por el sector,  
Question: ¿Cuáles son los requisitos y condicionamientos  para acceder a la importación de etanol 
tanto los exigidos por "Alcosuisse", como por  alguna entidad privada?, ¿Existe limitaciones 
cuantitativas para la importación de etanol?. 
Answer: 
Alcosuisse, as a profit center of the Federal Meeting of Alcohols, doesn't grant the authorization for the import; such an authorization is granted by the Federal Meeting of Alcohols itself. The 
Federal Meeting of Alcohols authorizes an import ation only if Alcosuisse, profit center of the 
Federal Meeting of Alcohols, cannot deliver the et hanol quality required by the customer. So far 
we've spoken about very limited quantities. 
Importations made by Alcosuisse, profit center of the Federal Meeting of Alcohols, are due to the 
fact that Swiss production is insufficient. Thus, to fulfil the needs of Swiss economy, Alcosuisse, 
profit center of the Federal Meeting of Alcohols, regularly buys foreign ethanol, based on those 
needs. 
Question: Teniendo en cuenta que la existencia de la  Junta Federal de Alcoholes es por motivos de 
salud publica para reducir la producción y el cons umo de bebidas alcohólicas, Colombia solicita 
conocer si la Junta Federal esta facultada para cont rolar la importación de alcoholes con volumen 
menor al 80%?, ¿De ser así, cuales son las medidas y requisitos?   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 81 
 
 
  Answer:  
Except for ethanol for industrial purposes, privat e persons are allowed to import alcohol in several 
forms, for example spirits, liqueur wine, vermouth, foodstuffs and aromas containing alcohol, etc. 
A tax – the so-called monopoly tax – is levied  on imported goods. The products are taxed at a 
standard tax of CHF 29.00 per litre of pure alcohol (100%). Since February 2004 a special tax of 
CHF 116.00 is levied on alcopops. The  tax is reduced by 50 per cent for natural wines, wines made 
from fruits and berries and other raw ingredients with an alcohol content of over 15% by volume 
but not exceeding 22% by volume. The same reduced tax is applicable for wi ne specialities, liqueur 
wines, Mistells, vermouth wines and other wines m ade from fresh grapes – aromatized with plants 
or other substances – with an alcohol content of maximum 22% by volume. Therefore the fiscal 
taxation amounts to CHF 14.50 per litre of pure alcohol. Only the Swiss Confederation is entitled to import products which contain 80% by volume alcohol and more.It is the customs authorities 
that collect the taxes at the border on behalf  of the Swiss Alcohol Board (SAB). Importers who 
have their own tax-free warehouses authorised by th e SAB, are entitled to transport spirits from the 
border to their own bonded warehouses without payi ng the monopoly tax. No t until the goods leave 
the bonded storage system is the monopoly tax due and must be paid for. Within the tax-free 
warehouses spirits can be produced, processed, st ored, matured, bottled and kept ready for 
dispatch/export. They can also be transferred from one tax-free warehouse to another with the necessary waybills. 
Anyone importing spirits for commercial purpo ses must abide by the relevant regulations. 
Non-taxed imports:
 
Alcoholic products that are not intended for dr inking purposes such as perfume, medicines, 
varnishes, detergents as well as products with an alcohol content not exceeding 1.2% by volume 
(e.g. pastries and chocolate) can be imported free of alcohol taxes. Also tax-free are alcoholic 
beverages (spirits), which are brought into th e country by travellers, but not exceeding the 
following quantities: 2 litres up to 15% by volume, and 1 litre over 15% by volume. 
This tax-free "supply for the journey" is on ly granted to persons aged 17 and over. 
Imported quantities:  
About 75% of the spirits consumed in Swit zerland originate from abroad. Among the most 
imported spirits are whisky, liqueurs, bitter drinks , aperitif, vodka, rum as well as vermouth wines, 
wine specialities and liqueur wines. 
(CHINESE TAIPEI):   
(page 74, paragraph 139)  
Switzerland still has some State-owned public utility and public livelihood industries, such as, Salt, 
Electricity production and supply, Electricity transmission, Water and Gas.  
Question:  Will these industries remain State-owned or will they be privatized in the future?  
Answer: 
There are currently no plans to privatize the sa lt industries owned by the Swiss cantons.  
Electricity and gas: According to the terms of the Law on Electricity Supply, the high voltage 
electricity transmission grid is to remain in pub lic ownership under Swiss control. Switzerland has 
no national plans to privatise its other publicly -owned electricity and gas enterprises. As these 
enterprises are mostly owned by sub-federal pub lic entities, it is however left to the sub-federal 
entities to decide whether these ente rprises will be privatized or not.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 82  
 
  (iii) Competition policy and regulatory  issues  
(ARGENTINA):  
En el párrafo 147 el informe indica que, atendiendo la escasa competencia y los elevados precios de 
muchos productos y servicios que existen en el mer cado suizo, la "Ley federal de Cárteles y otras 
limitaciones a la competencia de Suiza" ha sido modificada en el periodo bajo examen.  
Question: ¿Cuáles han sido estas modificaciones? 
Answer: 
The revised Cartel Act was adopted in 2003. After a transition period, full application started in 
April 2005. A key element of the revision was the introduction of sharper tools for the Competition 
Commission (Comco). For example, sanctions agai nst cartel law offenders could not be imposed 
until the second (repeated) offence until the amendment of the law. The revision aligned Swiss 
competition law much closer to in ternational best practice.  
The central revisions are summarized below: 
• Introduction of direct sanctions for hard-co re cartels and abuse of dominant position. The 
sanction may amount to as much as 10 percent of turnover in Switzerland in the last three 
business years. 
• Introduction of a leniency programme. Firms that have infringed the law may have their 
sanction reduced if they cooperate  with the competition authorities in bringing to light and 
eliminating unlawful restraints of competition. 
• New presumption that certain types of vertical  agreements on prices and markets preclude 
effective competition. 
• Introduction of new methods of investigatio n, especially search and seizure operations 
("dawn raids"), which the Secretariat of th e Comco can apply if there are serious grounds 
for suspecting an infringement of cartel law. 
• Requirement for members of the Comco to disclose their interests (eg, membership of 
company boards) in a special register.  
(USA):   
Pages 76-77, paragraphs 147-148, 150:  
The Secretariat's report suggests that limited competition in certain sectors of the Swiss market is a 
concern.  However, legislation on competition was amended in 2004 a nd 2006, with a resultant 
increase in enforcement activity.   
Question:  What have the impacts of the laws listed in paragraph 148 and the amendments mentioned 
in 150 been in terms of supporting increased co mpetition?  Do Switzerland and Liechtenstein plan 
any additional action? 
Answer: 
The question addresses firstly the reform of the Cartel Act (2004) and secondly the reform of the 
Internal Market Act (2006).   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 83 
 
 
  Cartel Act  
The revised Cartel Act was adopted in 2003. After a transition period, full application started in 
April 2005. The revision's content is summarized in  the answer to Argen tina's question referring 
to §147. The amendments bring Swiss competition law much closer to international best practice. 
First results of the reform are already visible: For example, there have been a number of leniency 
applications by companies and some dawn raids by  the competition authorities that will eventually 
lead to the detection of hard core cartels. Furtherm ore, the Competition Commission has applied 
the new sanction mechanism in several cases.  
The revised Cartel Act introduced reforms that were systemically new to Swiss legislation. Hence, 
the years immediately after the reform have been cruci al to define the possibilities and limits of the 
new law. This process is still ongoing: The cas es based on leniency and dawn raids are not yet 
published; and the first large ca se comprising financial sanctions is currently pending at higher 
courts. Therefore, it is now too early to assess the general economic impacts of the reform.  
Nevertheless, an evaluation of the law is curren tly ongoing. The Swiss Cartel Act introduced in 
2003 provides for the following (Article 59a): 
1. The Federal Council will arrange for the evalua tion of the effectiveness of the measures 
and implementation of this Act. 
2. The Federal Council will report back to the Parlia ment after conclusion of the evaluation, 
at latest however five years after entry into  force of this provision, and will submit 
proposals for further action. 
In the current evaluation, various questions regardi ng legislation, execution of the law, output of 
the Competition Commission, economic impact an d outcome have been analyzed. Among other 
things, a tendering procedure was launched to fi nd independent experts to examine the economic 
effects of the revised Cartel Act. Moreover, the eval uation will comprise an analysis of the effects of 
decisions in concerned markets as well as a com parative analysis of Swiss competition legislation. 
Results of the evaluation as well as recommenda tions on future reforms will be published in 
spring 2009.  
Internal Market Act  
The second amendment mentioned in the question is the reform of the Internal Market Act. It seeks 
to eliminate restrictions on market access intr oduced by cantons and communes. The Internal 
Market Act was established in 1995 and amen ded in 2006. The 2006 revision followed an 
evaluation of persisting barriers and an interpreta tion of court decisions until then. The amended 
law … 
• … further removes cantonal and communa l barriers to market access. The revision 
comprises a more restrictive fo rmulation of the exceptions.  
• … ensures that recognition procedures for certif icates of qualification for some professions 
covered by the agreement with the EU on the f ree movement of persons follow the rules as 
agreed with the EU. 
• … strengthens the Competition Commission's supervisory role. The agency has received a 
right of appeal, enabling it to challenge administrative decisions that it considers unlawful. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 84  
 
  In a first leading case, the Swiss Federal Cour t confirmed the recognition of practical experience 
of an attorney-at-law active in the canton of Vaud  with experience in the canton of Geneva. This 
leading case could build an important base fo r professionals seeking for recognition of their 
practical experience. 
Sectoral reforms
 
In general, the lowering of trade barriers and ope ning of internal markets is one of the most 
successful means to increase compe tition. In this respect, other legislations and provisions than the 
Cartel Act and the Internal Market Act have a sign ificant influence on the extent of competition.  
Several initiatives aiming at strengthening interna tional and internal competition are underway in 
Switzerland. Notable examples are the negotiation of an FTA with the EU in the agricultural 
market, the lowering of non-tariff trade barriers by amending the Law on Technical Barriers to 
Trade as well as various sectoral reforms such as the lowering of the monopoly limit in the postal 
market.  
(iv) Intellectual property (IP)  rights  
(a) Patents 
(USA) :  
In paragraph 60, the Government of Switzerland notes that the patent law has recently been revised.  
Article 49a of the revised patent law requires th e disclosure of the information on the source of a 
genetic resource and of traditional knowledge of  indigenous and local communities, when the 
inventor had access to such genetic resource or knowl edge and the invention is directly based on this 
resource or knowledge.  It is not clear when this info rmation is required or why it would be relevant to 
the processing of a patent application.   
Question: Please provide details as to when and how  the disclosure requirement must be met, 
including instances in which an invention is "d irectly based" on a genetic resource or traditional 
knowledge.   
Answer: 
Article 49a Federal Law on Patents for Inventions states that the patent applicant has to declare 
the source if the invention is directly based on  a genetic resource or traditional knowledge. With 
regard to genetic resources, the notion of "di rectly based" requires that (1) the invention must 
make immediate use of the genetic resource, that is, depend on the specific properties of this 
resource; and (2) that the inventor must have had physical access to this resource, that is, its 
possession or at least contact which is sufficient enough to identify the properties of the genetic 
resource relevant for the invention. With regard to  traditional knowledge, the notion of "directly 
based" requires that the inventor must know that  the invention is directly based on such 
knowledge, that is, the inventor must consciously derive the invention from this knowledge. 
According to Article 45a (1) of the Federal Ordina nce on Patents for Inventions, the source has to 
be included in the description of the invention. 
Question: Please also explain the meaning of the term "indigenous and local communities" in the 
context of Article 49a?    WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 85 
 
 
  Answer: 
The term "indigenous and local communities" as used in Article 49a corresponds with the 
meaning of the term as used in Article 8(j) of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which 
reads as follows:   
"Art. 8:  Each contracting Party shall, as far as possible and as appropriate:  (j) Subject to national 
legislation, respect, preserve and maintain knowle dge, innovations and practices of indigenous and 
local communities embodying traditional lifestyles relevant for the conservation and sustainable 
use of biological diversity and promote their wide r application with the approval and involvement 
of the holders of such knowledge, innovations and practices and encourage the equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilization of such knowledge innovations and practices."  
Question: In addition, please explain the basis for requiri ng the disclosure of the origin of genetic 
resources or traditional knowledge. How does this  requirement correspond to Article 27(1) of the 
TRIPS Agreement, which provides that "patents shal l be available and patent rights enjoyable without 
discrimination as to the place of invention, the fie ld of technology and whether products are imported 
or locally produced? 
Answer: 
The objective of the requirement to declare the source of genetic r esources and traditional 
knowledge in patent applications is to increase transparency in the context of access and benefit 
sharing. In this regard, it aims at supporting the implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). 
The provisions of the Federal Law on Patents for Inventions on the disclosure of source fully take 
into account the international obligations of Switzer land, including those set out in Article 27(1) of 
the TRIPS Agreement. In light of this:   
• Article 49a (1) requires patent applicants to d eclare the source of genetic resources and 
traditional knowledge, which is to be understood as broadly as possible. 
• Article 49a (2) allows the patent applicants to declare that the source is unknown to them. 
This is to avoid that the patent cannot be gr anted due to the unknown source in those cases 
where the source is unknown to the inventor or the patent applicant. 
• The non-fulfillment of the disclosure requi rement does not lead to the revocation of 
granted patents. 
Art. 49a reflects thus a differentiated approach t aking into account the specificities of patent 
protection of biotechnological inventions.  
(CANADA): 
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (4) Measures Affecting Production And Trade; (vi) Intellectual Property Rights: paragraph 168, page 84: 
The Report by the Secretariat provides that patentab ility criteria such as novelty and inventive step are 
not examined by the Swiss Federal Institute of Inte llectual Property, but that they are requirements in 
all technical fields and are legally contestable.  
Question: 4. Canada would appreciate Switzerland's and Liechtenstein's views as to whether these 
practices have a significant effect on the work of patent examiners and courts/boards, and on whether 
these have an appreciable effect on the quality of patents granted in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 86  
 
  Answer: 
In view of the increasing preference of applican ts for the European patent procedure providing 
fully examined patents that are also valid in Switzerland, the Swiss legislator decided in 1995 to discontinue the national patent granting procedu re with complete examination. Since then, the 
examination of national patent application is restricted to the following main points: The presence 
of an invention, a lack of grounds for exclusion from patenting, commercial application, clarity of 
the specifications and sufficiency of the disclosure.  
Such a limited examination in the national patent  granting procedure provides a facilitated and 
more expeditious procedure for the national pate nt granting route, while at the same time 
providing the patent holder with less legal certainty as concerns the subject-matter of his patent 
However, the latter has no significant impact on th e Swiss patent system as the great majority of the 
patents valid in Switzerland today are granted thro ugh the European Patent Office that examines 
all the conditions for granting, including novelty and inventive step. Thus, the national patent route 
is becoming less and less important.  
The amendment of the Patent Act has nevertheless introduced an optional report on prior art in the 
national patent granting procedure. This optional report gives the patent applicant, and third 
parties, a first indication on the novelty and in ventiveness of the invention. Thus, the optional 
report on prior art provides a basis for deci ding about proceeding with an application or, 
respectively, to judge the legal validity of a paten t. The optional character of such a report is 
necessary in order to avoid overlap between the Eu ropean and the international procedure and to 
avoid that the granting procedure becomes signif icantly more expensive. The carrying out of a 
search is incentivised by the short terms (one to two months after the search fee has been paid) and 
a comparably low fee.  
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (4) Measures Affecting Production And 
Trade; (vi) Intellectual Property Rights: paragraph 169, page 84: 
The Report by the Secretariat provides that interested  parties may apply for a compulsory licence if an 
inventor has not made sufficient use of the inventi on within the country three years after the patent 
has been granted or four years following the date of the patent application. 
Question: 5. Canada would be grateful if Switzerland and Liechtenstein could clarify if there are 
other grounds on which compulsory licences may be granted in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. 
Answer: 
Articles 36 to 40d of Swiss Patent Act provide fo r compulsory licences in case of dependent patents 
and dependent plant variety rights (Art. 36 and 36a), in case of insufficient working of the 
invention in Switzerland (Art. 37), in case of public interest (Art. 40), in the field of semiconductor technology (Art. 40a), for biotechnological research tools (Art. 40b), for diagnostic products and processes (Art. 40c), and for the export of pharma ceutical products to countries that have no or 
insufficient manufacturing capacities in the field of pharmaceuticals (Art. 40d). 
(b) Plant varieties 
(c) Trade marks 
(CANADA): 
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Meas ure; (4) Measures Affecting Production and 
Trade; (vi) Intellectual Property Rights : paragraph 175 (footnote 184), page 85: 
Footnote 184 states that illegal signs are excluded from trademark protection.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 87 
 
 
  Question:  23. Could Switzerland please explain what may be considered as an illegal sign (an 
example would be appreciated) under Swiss law and what considerations the Institute takes into 
account in order to conclude that a si gn is illegal and therefore unregistrable? 
Answer: 
Article 2d of the Swiss Federal Law on the Prot ection of Trademarks and Indications of Source 
provides that signs which are contra ry to national law or internationa l treaties, may not be granted. 
A deficiency of this nature is an absolute bar to registration. Thus, all trademarks must conform to 
all national legislation, such as the food and drug act or the tobacco ordinance. For example, the tobacco ordinance prohibits the use of misleading descriptions such as "mild" or "light" and the 
ordinance on alcoholic beverages prohibits statemen ts which suggest positive health related effects, 
such as "tonic", on an alcoholic beverage. In co nsequence, such descriptions cannot be registered 
as trademarks with respect to these goods. 
Another example is Article 1 of the Swiss Federa l Act of the Protection of Coats of Arms that 
prohibits the registration of the Swiss as well as  cantonal and communal coats of arms and other 
public insignia (or similar signs) as an elemen t of a trademark for goods. Foreign coats of arms 
can neither be registered as an element of  a trademark for services nor for goods.  
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Meas ure; (4) Measures Affecting Production and 
Trade; (vi) Intellectual Property Rights: paragraph 179, page 86:  
Paragraph 179 observes that agricultural products can be entered into the federal register for protected 
denominations of origin (PDOs) and prot ected geographical indications (PGIs). 
Question:  24. What are the advantages associated with the registration of PDOs and PGIs? 
Answer: 
The registration of an appellation of origin (A O/DO) or a geographical indication (GI) has for 
advantage to give to its right holders a title of  protection recognised by a state agency. The 
registration sets the conditions of use of the AO or the GI in a product specification ('cahier des 
charges'). This facilitates the findings of irregularities and infringements as well as the 
enforcement of the right by the right holders or by  the bodies responsible of the control of foodstuff 
in Switzerland. It is to be emphasized, howeve r, that in Switzerland, registration is not a 
prerequisite for a geographical indica tion to be granted protection.  
More detailed information can be found on: http://www.ige.ch/e/jurinfo/j104.shtm#1. 
Question: 25. Does registration confer more extensive right s in respect of the items registered therein 
than to those that are not registered? 
Answer: 
The registration of an AO or a GI does not prov ide more extensive rights as compared to non-
registered GIs. However, the registration ensures a 'publicity effect', and through the 'cahier des 
charges' increased predictability and legal security  concerning the concrete subject-matter of the 
protection. This facilitates the enforcement of the ri ght in case of abusive uses of the AO or the GI. 
In addition, as long as it is registered, an AO or  GI cannot become generic in Switzerland. Articles 
16 and 172 of the Federal Law on Agriculture of April 29, 1998 and Article 17 of the Federal ordinance on the protection of appellations of or igin and geographical indications in respect of 
agricultural products and processed agricultural products of May 28, 1997 (Ordinance on PAO and PGI) regulate the details as pertaining to the registration of AO and GI. 
Question: 26. Which criteria have to be met in order for a PDO or a PGI to be entered on the 
register? WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 88  
 
  Answer: 
In order to be registered, a designation has to meet  the conditions of the definition of an AO or a 
GI as defined in Article 2 and 3 of the Ordinan ce on PAO and PGI. Generic names or the name of 
a plant variety or an animal breed that may le ad to consumers' confusion concerning the true 
origin of the product are not eligible for registra tion (Articles 4 and 4b of the Ordinance). Article 5 
defines who may qualify as an applicant to request the registration of an AO or a GI. Articles 6 
and 7 describe the content of the application and of the required product specification ('cahier des 
charges'). In the case of an application for an AO  or a GI located in another country, the applicant 
will have to provide in addition the elements establis hing that the denomination is protected in its 
country of origin (Article 8a of the Ordinance). 
Question: 27. What are, if any, the circumstances or criteria under which a PDO or a PGI may be 
unregistrable? 
Answer: 
A designation cannot be registered as an AO or a GI in the following cases: when it is a generic 
name (Article 4 of the Ordinance on PAO and PGI) or when it corresponds to the name of a plant 
variety or of an animal breed that may lead to co nsumers' confusion concerning the true origin of 
the product (Article 4b of the Ordinance). Registration is also denied in case of a successful objection to a request for registration. Article 10 of the Ordinance enumerates the principal 
grounds to raise an objection against the registration of an AO or a GI. 
(d) Industrial designs 
(USA): 
Question: Please confirm that the term of protection for industrial designs that could be 
characterized as "spare parts" (for automobiles,  household equipment and other complex articles) 
conforms with the ten-year period provided in Article 26(3) of the TRIPS Agreement? 
Answer: 
Article 26(3) of the TRIPS Agreement requires a minimum protection of 10 years for an industrial 
design.  The Swiss Design Law offers a maximum term of protection of 25 years (Article 5 of our 
Design Law). There is no distinction in the Desi gn Law between "regular designs" and "spare part 
designs". Accordingly, spare part designs benefit equally from a maximum term of protection of 
25 years. Accordingly, Swiss legislation is compatib le with Article 26(3) of the TRIPS Agreement, 
providing actually protection going beyond what is set out in the latter as a minimum requirement 
of term of protection for designs.   
(e) Copyright and neighbouring rights  
(USA): 
Article 19 of the Swiss copyright law contains a broad private use exception covering "any use of a 
work in the personal sphere or within a circle of  persons closely connected to each other such as 
relations or friends."  This exception also cove rs reproductions of works for internal use by 
companies. 
Question:  Please explain how this broad exception compli es with the "three-step" test set forth in 
Article 9(2) of the Berne Convention and Article 13 of the TRIPS Agreement. 
Answer: 
Article 19 of the Swiss Copyright Act reflects a pr otection standard as prevailing in other European 
countries in this area. When considering the permi ssion of reproduction of works for internal use 
by companies, it is important to note that it is  not permitted to fully or substantially reproduce  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 89 
 
 
  books, CDs or similar items that are commercia lly available. Any copying which amounts to 
substituting the sale of a commercially available b ook etc. is considered a substantial reproduction 
thereof. Additionally Switzerland has - unlike oth er countries - introduced a blank media levy and 
remuneration for photocopying. Consequently the righ ts owner benefits from copying even in such 
cases that would otherwise not lead to the sale of an additional copy of the work. Thus, Switzerland 
does not consider Article 19 of its Copyright Act to  be overly broad but to be in full compliance with 
the three steps test as formulated in th e Berne Convention or the TRIPS agreement. 
(JAPAN):   
(Question 2: page 87, paragraph 188)  
(1) According to the Secretariat report, 'Copyright protects literary and artistic creations that possess 
an individual nature, i.e. a certain degree of or iginality. In particular, the following are protected: 
literary works, musical works, works of fine ar t, audio-visual works, choreographic works, 
pantomimes, and scientific works.'  
Question:  Please indicate how to protect intangible things as copyrights, such as pantomimes and 
dancing. 
Answer: 
The Swiss copyright act protects all literary and artistic creations of the mind that possess an individual nature (cf. Article 2 para. 1 copyri ght act). This of course includes pantomimes and 
dancing. In accordance with the Berne Convention , copyright protection is not subject to any 
formalities. Moreover, and unlike other countri es, Switzerland does not apply any fixation 
requirement, which should be taken into consid eration with regard to the art forms mentioned. 
(2) Japan suffers from a number of cases in which TV format rights are pirated in Asian countries. 
Question:  In this regards, please explain specific legi slation in Switzerland for protecting TV format 
(such as a planning of TV program and an idea of  TV programming). Japan also would like to know 
whether or not such TV format is protected by a law other than copyright law in Switzerland which 
protects neighboring rights of producers and broadcasters relating to videogram.  
Answer: 
There is no specific protection for TV formats in Switzerland. However the existing IP protection is 
considered to offer adequate and sufficient protec tion, since there have been no reports that 
broadcasters would suffer from any copying of such formats. While the Copyright Law offers protection of the stage setting and other copyrightable aspects of a TV show, the Trademark Law may protect the name of the show and other marks u sed in this connection and last but not least the 
Law against Unfair Competition might offer additio nal protection in case of blatant copying. 
(COLOMBIA):  
188. El derecho de autor protege las creaci ones literarias y artísticas que tienen un carácter 
particular, es decir, cierto grado de originalidad.  En particular, están protegidas las obras literarias, 
las obras musicales, las obras de bellas artes, las obras audiovisuales, las obras coreográficas, las pantomimas y las obras científicas.  El derecho de autor también protege el software (programas 
informáticos).  Los artistas intérpretes o ejecutantes, los productores de medios de audio y 
audiovisuales, y las compañías de radiodifusión (en pa rticular, televisión y radio) están protegidas al 
amparo de los derechos conexos, que abarcan las interpretaciones o ejecuciones y las reproducciones, 
así como las grabaciones y emisiones de audio y audiovisuales. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 90  
 
  Question:  A efectos de establecer cuál es el "ciert o grado de originalidad"  que demanda la Ley 
Suiza
1 para la protección de las obras literarias y artí sticas, Colombia quisiera conocer su aplicación 
práctica, en particular el alcance que los Tribunales han dado al mismo.  
Answer: 
When deciding on the originality (or individu ality) requirement, the Sw iss Federal Supreme Court 
relies on the 'theory of statistical uniqueness'. Such uniqueness is achieved if the result is 
surprising or unusual and if it is highly unlikel y that another creator would come to the same 
result under the same circumstances. 
189. La protección mediante el derecho de autor y derechos conexos se aplica automáticamente a 
partir del momento de la creación.  No se requi ere formalidad alguna, y no es necesario depositar 
copia.  El Instituto no ma ntiene un registro de los derechos de au tor.  En Suiza, la protección mediante 
el derecho de autor finaliza transcurridos 70 años desde el fallecimiento de éste, mientras que la 
protección del software finaliza transcurridos 50 años  a partir de ese momento.  Los derechos conexos 
finalizan transcurridos 50 años desde la interpretación o ejecución de la obra por el artista intérprete o 
ejecutante, la publicación (o, en su defecto, la produ cción) de los medios de audio o audiovisuales, o 
la emisión de la radiodifusión. 
Question: ¿Por qué existe una diferenciación entre el térm ino de protección de las obras artísticas y 
literarias en general, frente al término de protección del software2?  
Answer: 
Since the European Union is by far the most important trading partner of Switzerland, the Swiss legislator chose at the time to harmonize the term of protection for computer programs with the 
term of protection in the European Union (c f. Article 8 of the Council Directive 91/250/EEC of 
14 May 1991 on the legal protection of computer pr ograms, which required a term of protection of 
fifty years) in order to avoid market distortions.  
(f) Layout-designs (topographies) of integrated circuits  
(g) Enforcement  
                                                     
 
1 Loi fédérale sur le droit d'auteur et les droits  voisins (Loi sur le droit d'auteur, LDA). 231.1 
"Art. 2 Définition:   
1. Par oeuvre, quelles qu'en soient la valeur ou la  destination, on entend toute création de l'esprit, 
littéraire ou artistique, qui a un caractère individuel. 
2. Sont notamment des créations de l'esprit:  a. les oeuvres recourant à la langue, qu'elles soient 
littéraires, scientifiques ou autres;  b. les oeuvres musicales et autres oeuvres acoustiques;  c. les oeuvres des beaux-arts, en particulier les peinture s, les sculptures et les oeuvres gr aphiques;  d. les oeuvres à contenu 
scientifique ou technique, tels que les dessins, les plans, les cartes ou les ouvrages sculptés ou modelés;  e. les 
oeuvres d'architecture;  f. les oeuvres des arts appliqués;  g. les oeuvres photographiques, cinématographiques et les autres oeuvres visuelles ou audi ovisuelles;  et h. les oeuvres chorégraphiques et les 
pantomimes. 
3 Les programmes d'ordinateurs (logiciels) sont également considérés comme des oeuvres. 4 Sont assimilés à des oeuvres les projets, titres et parties d'oeuvres s'ils constituent des créations de 
l'esprit qui ont un caractère individuel." 
2 Loi fédérale sur le droit d'auteur et les droits  voisins (Loi sur le droit d'auteur, LDA). 231.1 
"Art. 29 Généralités:   
1. L'oeuvre, qu'elle soit fixée sur un support matéri el ou non, est protégée par le droit d'auteur dès 
sa création. 
2. La protection prend fin: a. pour les logiciels, 50 ans après le décès de l'auteur;  b. pour toutes les 
autres oeuvres, 70 ans après le décès de l'auteur."   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 91 
 
 
  IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR  
(1) I NTRODUCTION   
(USA):   
Page 90, paragraph 2:   
The agricultural sector remains highly protected despite its limited economic importance in terms of contribution to GDP and employment.  The Secretar iat's report states that the agriculture sector is 
characterized by relatively high levels of state inte rvention and tariffs, limited competition, and export 
subsidies.   
Question:  In terms of reforming this sector to bring it more in line with an otherwise market-driven 
economy, which of these areas are priorities? 
Answer: 
See Answer to Question no. 1 by New Zealand. 
(NEW ZEALAND):   
New Zealand notes the implementation of a programme  of agricultural reform in Switzerland, but 
notes also the Secretariat's observation that the ag riculture sector remains highly protected since the 
last review in 2004 (WT/TPR/S/208 p.90).   
Question: Given that this has contributed to high dom estic prices for agricu ltural and food products, 
New Zealand asks whether Switzerland has considered  the benefits of a more liberalised agriculture 
sector for consumers and food processors, as well as  for exporters in the form of greater export 
opportunities 
Answer: 
Switzerland is stepwise liberalising its agricultu ral sector. Agricultural Policy 2011, a new policy 
initiative and the successor to AP 2007, has al ready been adopted by Parliament and is 
implemented at the moment of speaking. Switzerlan d will lower tariffs on cereals and feedstuff, 
continue the de-coupling of domestic support, and phase out all export subsidies on basic 
agricultural products. 
In addition, Switzerland is an active participant in the Doha-Round negotiations. Switzerland will 
be one of the highest net contributors to this Round, lowering significantly its level of border 
protection and its domestic support commitments. In addition, Switzerland is already delivering on 
the engagements taken in Kong Kong: all export su bsidies on basic agricultural products will be 
phased out by 2010! The tariff cuts foreshadowed in the currently tabled Agriculture modalities are 
real cuts, resulting one-in-one in  revenue losses for domestic farm ers. This will result in a much 
liberalised agricultural sector. 
Finally, Switzerland and the EC have launched negotiations on a free trade agreement in the 
agricultural sector. The goal of these negotiations is  to eliminate all tariffs and tariff quotas, as 
well as non-tariff barriers, between the two entities.  With over 70% of Swiss imports coming from 
the EU, this agreement will have a significant impac t on our farmers. The agreement will greatly 
enhance the competitiveness of the Swiss agricul tural sector and give our producers access to a 
market with almost 500 million consumers. 
(CHINESE TAIPEI):  
(page 90, paragraph 4)  
Switzerland has adopted a new electricity law, whic h provides for partial liberalization of the Swiss 
electricity market as of 2009, and for full liberalization as of 2014.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 92  
 
  Question:  a. Does full liberalization include electricity privatization?  
Answer: 
Neither partial nor full liberalization includes priva tization. The Electricity Supply Law contains a 
provision aiming at keeping the high voltage transmission grid under public Swiss ownership.  
(2) A
GRICULTURE AND RELATED ACTIVITIES  
(i) Overview and main features  
(COLOMBIA):  
10. En este aparte Suiza se refiere a su estabilidad en los índices de autosufici encia en la mayoría de 
productos. Sin embargo, en el párrafo 11 afirma  textualmente que "Suiza y Liechtenstein son 
importadores netos de productos agrícolas y alimenticios". 
Question:  Por lo anterior, es conveniente solicitar la  aclaración sobre los productos netos de 
importación a que refiere el párrafo 11. 
Answer: 
Switzerland is, per capita, one of the biggest net-importers of agricultural products for human consumption. On a food energy unit level impor ts account for 43% of food procurement in 
Switzerland. Table IV.2 of the Secretariat's report reproduces the degree of self-sufficiency for a number of product categories. Switzerland is a ne t importer of those products for which the degree 
of self-sufficiency is below 100 per cent. 
(ii) Policy objectives  and instruments  
(ECUADOR): 
Según el párrafo 12, con arreglo a la Política Agríco la 2007, Suiza ha continuado el cambio gradual 
de las políticas de sostenimiento de los precios a las de pagos directos. 
Question: ¿Cuáles son los motivos que han impulsado a Sui za a continuar con el cambio gradual de 
políticas de sostenimiento de los precios a las de pagos directos?  
Answer: 
Please refer to the reply to the question by New Zealand under Chapter IV. (1). 
(USA):   
Page 97, paragraph 24:  
The OECD notes that production and trade-distor ting support have been reduced but still account for 
more than half of agricultural producer support.  Some 75% of this support falls in the category of 
"most distortive."   
Question:  Do Switzerland and Liechtenstein plan to c ontinue reducing suppor t, particularly the 
trade-distortive support?  If so, what is the tim eline and final target that you hope to reach? 
Answer: 
Under Agricultural Policy 2011, the reform pro cess is ongoing in Switzerland, including 
decoupling of market price support. Indeed, Pa rliament has already adopted the necessary 
measures, which are currently being implemented. This includes major reforms with regards to butter, oilseeds and the field crops sector. In addition, Switzerland has shown considerable flexibility in the Domestic Support pillar of the Doha round negotiations, with regard to both 
Amber and Blue Box payments. For further refo rm, Switzerland is looking forward to the  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 93 
 
 
  implementation of those ambitious reduction co mmitments once the Doha Round negotiations are 
concluded. At the end of the implementation of  the Doha Round, Switzerland will have reduced 
significantly the amount of its AMS.  
(AUSTRALIA): 
Agricultural Policy 2007 (AP 2007), adopted by Parliament in 2003, has been Switzerland's main 
policy initiative in the sector during the review pe riod, leading to changes in the Federal Law on 
agriculture and various ordinances.  Specifi c policy measures introduced under AP 2007 have 
focussed mainly on domestic support and include a gr adual switch to auctioning in the allocation of 
meat quotas (WT/TPR/S/208 page 93 para 13) . 
Question: Could Switzerland explain why it introduced the auctioning system for tariff-rate quotas on 
meat, and whether consideration was given to other methods for allocating quotas? 
Answer: 
The Swiss experience with the auctioning of tariff quotas began in 1997 with different quotas, including some meat specialities. The result was very positive and subsequently, the system was 
introduced to other products, including meat. Switzerland considers auctioning of TRQ shares as 
one of the best methods to ensure competitive ma rket conditions for both importers and exporters. 
This is especially true for relatively small TRQ w ith high price differentials between domestic and 
world market prices. If conducted under certain conditions, auctioning brings about the highest 
possible degree of non-discrimination, transparency , and predictability. It can also break up anti-
competitive behaviour by importers' coalitions whic h can lead to inefficient allocation and higher 
consumer prices. Newcomers and small import ers have good access opportunities to quota shares. 
Finally, the auctioning method does not affect the fill rate of the quota. Indeed, the Swiss meat 
quotas are popular and the effective administra tion method the Swiss authorities apply lead to fill 
rates that lie close or above 100 per cent. This pos itive assessment of the auctioning method is 
underscored by many scientific studies, includ ing Josling, Tangermann and Warley, 1996, 
Haniotis, 1998 in OECD (2001): The Uruguay Round  Agreement on Agriculture; An Evaluation of 
its implementation in OECD countries. And Joeri n and Lengwiler, Swiss Journal of Economics 
and Statistics, 2004. 
Switzerland plans to phase out export subsidies fo r 'basic agricultural products' by January 2010 as 
part of its Agriculture  Policy 2011 reforms (WT/TPR/S/208 page 93 para 14) . 
Question: Could Switzerland clarify what arrangements  it is intending to make for processed 
agricultural products? 
Answer: 
Demonstrating its commitment to the decision take n by Ministers at the Meeting in Hong Kong in 
2005, and underlining the importance of a positi ve outcome of the Doha Round negotiations, 
Switzerland decided, in the framework of Agricultu ral Policy 2011, to phase out all export subsidies 
on basic agricultural products by 2010. As all ot her Member states, Switzerland is committed to 
phase out all Export Subsidies on agricultural products if the Doha Round is successfully 
concluded. 
This does not preclude to grant at present expor t refunds for processed agricultural products 
containing certain raw materials, as explaine d in the ES WTO notification. The refunds are 
granted to the extent of the price differences of  the raw materials used in the production of 
processed agricultural goods for exports. 
The Price Compensation Scheme (PCS) compensates for high domestic prices (of locally produced 
raw materials used as inputs by domestic agri-indus tries) resulting from Swiss agricultural policy 
measures (WT/TPR/S/208 page 96 para 21).  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 94  
 
  Question: How much does it cost Switzerland each year to operate the PCS? 
Answer: 
At the end of the implementation period of the Uruguay Round, Switzerland bound its annual 
commitment level for export subsidies for pro cessed agricultural products at 114.9 Mio CHF per 
year. The outlays for export refunds which were gr anted for processed agricultural products have 
decreased continuously in the last years (2004: 114.9 Mio CHF; 2005: 90 Mio. CHF; 
2006: 90 Mio. CHF; 2007: 79 Mio. CHF). 
(EUROPEANCOMMUNITIES):  
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 92, paras. 13  and 18  
The report notes the use of "auctioning" in the allocation of some tariff quotas (mainly meat).  Auctioning is a quite controversial method of tariff quota administration and the EC is opposed to its 
use. In the ongoing DDA negotiations, the u se of auctioning is not contemplated. 
Question: Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein please el aborate upon their position on "auctioning"? 
Answer: 
Please refer to our reply t to question number 1 by Australia. 
Question: Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein plea se clarify the discrepancy between the 
government's report (para. 13) which mentions an exclusion for sugar ('to which a zero reduction 
applies until September 2009'), and the Secretariat's report which mentions an exclusion for rice and 
sugar, with gradual tariff reduction to zero? 
Answer: 
It is true that both Government and Secretariat's reports do not reflect the situation accurately regarding the treatment of both products for LDCs . Pursuing the goal of granting LDCs duty free 
quota free access to the Swiss market, Switzerland has,  as of 1 April 2007, reduced all duties to zero 
and abolished all quotas for impor ts from LDCs, with the exceptions of sugar and broken rice for 
feed purposes. Market Access for LDCs for the se two products was gradually liberalised during a 
transition period which will end in Summer 2009. Sugar will be duty- and quota free as of 
1 July 2009 and broken rice for feed purpose as of 1 September 2009. 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 93, para. 14  
According the WTO Secretariat's report, based on the Agricultural Policy 2011 (AP2011) – which 
runs from 2008 to 2011 –, export subsidies on basi c agricultural products are to be phased out by 
January 2010 (and July 2009 for potatoes and dairy products). 
Question: Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein explain how this relates to export subsidies for 
processed agricultural goods (sector on which Switzerland still remains an important user)?   
Answer: 
Switzerland took the autonomous decision to pha se out export subsidies on basic agricultural 
products by January 2010. Nonetheless, the internal  legal basis for granting export subsidies on 
both basic and processed agricultural products is still article article 26 of the Federal Law on 
Agriculture.  
All in all, WTO commitments, as consolidated in  the LIX schedule, cover both export subsidies on 
basic and processed agricultural products. Therefore,  it is not precluded to continue to pay at 
present export refunds for basic agricultural pr oducts comprised in processed agricultural 
products. The  refunds are granted to the extent of the pri ce differences of the raw materials used in 
the production of processed agric ultural goods for exports.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 95 
 
 
  WTO Secretariat's Report, page 94,  para. 17  
The report states that the "complex system of 'ind icative'/'threshold' prices remains in place for 
agricultural products". The EC notes that the use of th e system is currently limited to feeding stuffs 
and seeds and that indicative/threshol d prices have generally been reduced during the last years. It is 
also acknowledged that these threshold prices ha ve a negative impact on predictability and 
transparency of applied MFN tariffs. 
Question: Given these factors, could Switzerland and  Liechtenstein comment on any possible 
evolution/simplification of this system?   
Answer: 
The aim of the threshold price system is to stabilise domestic prices for certain products within a given range. Consequently, the tariff is adapted in order to achieve the desired price level. The 
threshold prices have been considerably lowered in th e last two decades, more than 50% for some 
products, including barley and soybeans. This has r esulted in far lower tariffs than those bound in 
the Swiss schedule. Swiss Agricultural policy is co nstantly being reviewed and reformed. In this 
perspective, a reform of the threshold price system is not excluded. 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 94,  para. 18  
In its description of the methods to allocate impor ts within a Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ), the WTO 
Secretariat report refers to the "prise-en-charge" system.  
Question:  Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein expla in this procedure in more detail? 
Answer: 
"Prise-en-charge" refers to a system  of allocation of TRQ shares . Under this system, importers are 
allowed to apply for TRQ shares for at least th e same quantity of the concerned product as they 
produced or purchased domestically. The system's orig in is historic. The aim was to promote Swiss 
produce. Nevertheless, most of the system has been phased out already.  
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 95,  para. 24  
The report identifies a continued and gradual reducti on in the level of support since the last Trade 
Policy review of Switzerland and Liechtenstein. However, production and trade distorting policies 
still account for more that half of that support and in  the current context of the WTO negotiations, this 
is a cause for concern in the EC.  
Question:  Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein indicate in detail the measures that might be taken to 
reduce this trade distorting support? 
Answer: 
Under Agricultural Policy 2011, the reform pro cess is ongoing in Switzerland, including 
decoupling of market price support. Indeed, Pa rliament has already adopted the necessary 
measures, which are currently being implemented. This includes major reforms with regards to 
butter, oilseeds and the field crops sector. In addition, Switzerland has shown considerable flexibility in the Domestic Support pillar of the Doha round negotiations, with regard to both 
Amber and Blue Box payments. For further refo rm, Switzerland is looking forward to the 
implementation of those ambitious reduction co mmitments once the Doha Round negotiations are 
concluded. At the end of the implementation of  the Doha Round, Switzerland will have reduced 
significantly the amount of its AMS.  
(COLOMBIA):  
Párrafo 17.  En lo relativo al sistema de precios  "indicativos" o "de umbral" aplicado para productos 
agropecuarios Colombia solicita una descripción detallada de la metodología y explicación con 
ejemplos que incluyan las fuentes de los precios indicativos o de umbral.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 96  
 
  Question: Dado que el Departamento Federal de Economía  determina la "horquilla" admisible para 
las fluctuaciones de los precios de importaci ón, Colombia tiene las siguientes inquietudes:  
- Conocer la definición de "horquilla" y como se conforma. - Que parámetros utiliza el Departamento Federa l de Economía para determinar la horquilla. 
Answer:  
See also reply to question number 7 by the EC.  
As to the defintion of the 'fork' or range: The indicative/threshold Price system allows for 
fluctuation of the actual Price. The actual Price may deviate from the indicative Price by CHF 3 in 
either direction. This range is defined by the Department of Economic Affairs. The tariff for a given product is adapted in order to maintain the actual Price within the range, ensuring as well it 
is in no situation higher than the bound tariff. In dicative prices have been lowered constantly over 
the last few years, in order to bring Swiss prices  into closer alignment with EC and world prices. 
Question: 18. Teniendo en cuenta que Suiza y Liechte nstein emplean en la administración de 
contingentes el sistema de prise en charge combinad o con otro tipo de procedimientos como subastas, 
prorrata, entre otros.  Colombia consid era oportuno solicitar una detallada explicación del 
funcionamiento del sistema de pr ise en charge, con subasta, pro rrata y demás procedimientos 
utilizados por Suiza y Liechtenstein para la administración de contingentes.   
Answer: 
The OFAG website contains de tailed information for the impor t procedure for every product. 
For an explanation of the "prise en charge" system , please refer to the reply to question number 8 
by the EC. In general, importers apply every year to  OFAG to obtain an import licence. The system 
varies slightly for different products. The relevant  information for each product can be found on 
the OFAG website. 
Concerning auctioning: the tariff quota shares that  are put to tender are published on the OFAG 
homepage and in the Swiss Official Gazette of Co mmerce. Interested parties can also subscribe to 
an email newsletter. Bids can be placed either on line on the OFAG website, by mail or even fax. 
Bidders can make up to five bids per auction.  
Concerning prorata: Interested parties can apply at OFAG for additional quantities beyond the 
WTO tariff quota. A decision to expand the tariff quota is made taking into account the domestic market situation. 
21. De acuerdo al Plan de Compensación de Prec ios de Suiza y Liechtenstein los derechos de 
importación NMF que gravan los productos elabora dos o procesados agrícolas, constan de  un 
elemento industrial y un elemento agrícola. El elemen to agrícola es calculado a través de una formula 
normalizada y el elemento industrial es fijado por el Consejo Federal Suizo.  
Question:  A partir de lo anterior se tienen las siguientes inquietudes: ¿Qué productos a nivel de 
8 dígitos del arancel de Suiza están defini dos como un producto  elaborado o procesado? 
Answer:  
The processed agricultural products, where the impo rt duty is defined by the price compensation 
mechanism, are mainly: yoghurt containing fru it or cocoa (HS Chapter 4); frozen sweet corn 
(HS Chapter 7); sugar confectionery (HS Chapt er 17); chocolate and other food preparations 
containing cocoa (HS Chapter 18); pastry cooks' products and preparations of cereals, flour, 
starch, or milk (HS Chapter 19); and other food preparations (HS Chapter 21). An exhaustive list  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 97 
 
 
  of processed agricultural products at tariff line level falling under the pr ice compensation scheme 
is to be found in the Ordinance of 22 December  2004 on industrial elements and the agricultural 
elements upon the importation of proce ssed agricultural products (RS 632.111.722).  
Question:  ¿Qué características especiales y materias  primas específicas tie nen estos productos para 
ser clasificados como producto s elaborados o procesados?  
Answer:  
An exhaustive list of processed agricultural produ cts at tariff line level falling under the price 
compensation scheme is to be found in the Ordi nance of 22 December 2004 on industrial elements 
and the agricultural elements upon the im portation of processed agricultural products 
(RS 632.111.722). 
Question: Para calcular el elemento agrícola se hace uso de una formula normalizada. Colombia 
solicita una explicación detallada de los componentes de la formula y conocer cómo se realizan los 
cálculos empleando esta formula normalizada. 
Answer:  
MFN import tariffs on the processed agricultural products consist of an industrial and an 
agricultural element. The agricultural element is designed to offset the difference between the 
domestic and world prices for raw materials. The agricultural element for each tariff heading is 
calculated according to a standard recipe, whic h is determinant for the whole group. These 
standard recipes are reconsidered periodically or at the request of the interested circles with a view 
to avoid under- und overcompensations (RS 632.111.722). 
Question: ¿Qué parámetros o elementos son utilizados por el Consejo Federal Suizo para determinar 
el componente industrial? 
Answer:  
They were fixed in 1976 when the price compen sation scheme was introduced after the economic 
actors had been consulted. 
Question: ¿Cada cuanto tiempo varían estos aranceles? 
Answer:  
The import duties for processed agricultural produc ts are usually adjusted once a year, depending 
on the developments of the prices for basic agr icultural products on the respective markets. 
(INDIA): 
Question: What are Switzerland's domestic support progr ammes for farmers/agricultural products? 
What is the total financial outlay for such domestic  support programmes, both in absolute term and as 
the percentage of GDP? 
Answer:  
Swiss agricultural policy is oriented on founding principle of Multifunctionality. According to this 
principle, which the Swiss people, by way of a constitutional initiative, included in the Federal 
Constitution (Article 104), the Confederation shall ensure that the agricultural sector makes a 
contribution towards several objectives, including the reliable provision of the population with 
foodstuffs. Domestic support programs are designed in  order to fulfill the principles outlined in the 
Constitution. The most important instrument for Swiss agricultural policy are decoupled income 
payments, as described in Annex 2 to the WTO Ag reement on Agriculture. For details on these 
programs, including absolute financial outlay per ye ar, please refer to the relevant notifications to 
the WTO Committee on Agriculture. There are no o fficial calculations describing the ratio of 
agricultural domestic support outlay over GDP, but the figure is probably below 1 per cent. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 98  
 
  (iii) Key subsectors  
(a) Food, beverages, and tobacco products 
(b) Livestock, dairy, and related products (c) Sugar beet and sugar (d) Other crops 
(e) Forestry and logging, and fisheries 
(3) E
NERGY  
(i) Major features  
(ii) Oil products  
(BRAZIL):  
Question: Considering that in Switzerland and Liechtenstein bio-fuels fulfilling certain ecological 
and social conditions have been partially  or fully exempt from the minera l oil tax since July 2008, is it 
possible to elaborate on those conditions and on the certification process and on their compatibility 
with WTO rules? Could we have in formation concerning the treatment of the Brazilian ethanol in this 
respect? 
Answer: 
Switzerland has no trade restrictions with respect to biofuels but has adopted a law to promote 
sustainability of fuels made of renewables. The la w is currently in its implementation phase and 
will grant tax exemption under the following conditions: 
• Fuels made of renewables must generate at least 40% less greenhouse gas emission than 
fossil fuels;  
• Fuels made of renewables must not pollute th e environment considerably more than fossil 
fuels;  
• Feedstock cultivation for fuels made of ren ewables must not jeopardize biodiversity and 
rain forests; 
• In the cultivation of the feedstock and produ ction of the fuels the social legislation 
applicable to local production or at least th e ILO core labor standards must be respected.  
These conditions – to benefit from a tax exemption – require a life-cycle assessment of fuels made 
of renewables, in the case of bioethanol from cu ltivation of the feedstock, through production of 
the fuels until final consumption. The law is compatible with WTO rules, as it is non-
discriminatory. The conditions apply equally to all fuels made of renewables irrespective of their 
origin. Therefore Brazilian ethanol will be treated in the same way as any other fuel made of 
renewables. However Brazilian ethanol is benefitin g from zero tariffs which Switzerland grants 
unilaterally based on the genera lized system of preferences. 
 
  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 99 
 
 
  (iii) Natural gas 
(CHINESE TAIPEI):  
(page 103, paragraph 50)  
Natural gas prices in Switzerland are set directly by local authorities or subject to their approval.  
Question:  Is there any operational mechanism in place which determines when the local authorities 
formulate the prices?   
Answer:  
The prices are formulated on a cost basis follo wing the price evolution of the corresponding import 
contracts. The Price Surveillance Authority has th e general authority to monitor prices set by 
public enterprises (e.g. gas tariffs), except wher e specific legislation (e.g. Electricity Supply Law) 
attributes this competence to other bodies. 
Question:   What are the main concerns regarding the price-setting? 
Answer:  
The main concerns arise in cases where infrastr ucture owners reevaluate their assets in order to 
keep up with higher future rep lacement costs. The Price Surveillance Authority has common 
practice to prevent this kind of reevaluation,  as this obliges consumers to pay twice for 
infrastructure. 
(iv) Electricity  
(CHINESE TAIPEI):   
(page 104, paragraph 55) 
The Swiss Electricity Law established an independent Electricity Commission (ElCom), which has 
the power to order decreases or prohibit increases of transmission tariffs or consumer prices if it considers them inappropriate. 
Question: Are there any criteria applied as to when the ElCom judges transmission tariffs or 
consumer prices inappropriate?   
Answer: 
The relevant criteria for transmission tariffs are set by governmental ordinance. Switzerland 
applies a cost based tariff regula tion. Assets must be evaluated at their construction cost and 
depreciated linearly over a standardized life time. The relevant interest rate is the Weighted 
Average Capital Cost (WACC) that is determined by  the interest of riskless long term government 
bonds plus a specific risk premium calculated with  the method of the Capital Asset Pricing Model. 
The Swiss government has recently decided that it will examine the possibility to introduce 
benchmarking and incentive tariff regulation in the future. 
Question:  What are the reasons for the Swiss governm ent decreasing or prohibiting increases of the 
prices?  
Answer: 
The main reason is the non-conformity of prices  with the cost-based appr oach set forth in the Law 
and the Ordinance. Most problems arise due to at tempted reevaluation of existing infrastructure 
entailing increased depreciatio n costs for consumers. 
 
 WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 100  
 
  (4) M
ANUFACTURING  
(i) Main features (ii) Textiles, clothing, and footwear (iii) Chemical and pharmaceutical products (iv) Machines and equipment 
(5) S
ERVICES   
(PERU):  
Párrafo 69:  Dado que la presencia de personas físicas es una modalidad de interés para los Miembros 
en vías de desarrollo y que el Art. 1V del GATS co ntempla que se debe facilitar la participación de 
los países en desarrollo miembros mediante, entre ot ros, la liberalización del acceso a mercados en los 
sectores y modos de suministro de interés para sus exportaciones. 
Question:  ¿Suiza está considerando la posibilidad de ampliar sus compromisos en modo 4 en 
particular en la categoría de profesionales independientes y/o consolidar sus medidas? 
Answer: 
At present there is no particular facility to gr ant the entry of independent professionals. The 
existing Mode 4 commitments are already ref lecting a consolidation of its measures. 
(i) Construction services  
(a) Switzerland 
(Hong Kong):  
MFN exemptions (WT/TPR/S/208, P. 108, Para. 71) 
4. As set out in the Secretariat Report, Switzer land has scheduled certain MFN exemptions for 
construction services covering assembly and erection of  prefabricated buildings and installation work 
for energy, heating, water, communications and lifts. 
Question: Would Switzerland clarify the status of these exemptions vis-a-vis its MFN exemption list? 
Answer: 
These exceptions do not relate to the MFN-obligation but to the national treatment obligation. As a 
consequence, they are not listed in the MFN-list of reservations.  
(KOREA):  
Paragraph 75 of the Secretariat report lists so me of the problems linked with Switzerland's 
construction sector. 
Question:  In light of these problems, please elaborat e on the measures, if any, which have been 
implemented by the Swiss Federal government since the previous Trade Policy Review to resolve this 
problem. Please provide detail on the effectiveness of these measures. 
(EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES):  
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 108, para. 73  
Question: Concerning construction services, could Sw itzerland elaborate on the statement "in the 
past, there have been a relatively large number of  restrictive arrangements and other anti-competitive  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 101 
 
 
  practices among suppliers that limited entry of new, including foreign, suppliers" with a view to 
explaining the measures that have since been taken in order to open the ma rket to foreign suppliers?  
Could Switzerland provide figures on the current market share of foreign construction companies in 
the market? 
(INDIA):  
Question:   In response to question raised by Costa Ri ca on Construction Services during the last TPR 
it was informed by Switzerland that, "... four fa ctors, which were inhibiting competition in the 
construction sector: Standards and technical regulations, regulation of professional services, 
restrictive arrangements and limitations regarding the employment of foreign workers. In all four 
areas corrective measures have been or are about to be implemented." India would like to be 
informed about the present status of the corrective measures taken in this regard. 
(PERU):  
Question:  Párrafo 73: ¿Existe alguna iniciativa normativ a interna para flexibilizar los límites a la 
concesión de permisos de trabaj o para empleados extranjeros? 
(MEXICO): 
En el párrafo 73 se indica que varias profesiones de  este subsector siguen siendo reguladas a nivel 
cantonal;  en el pasado, han existido un número bast ante elevado de acuerdos restrictivos y otras 
prácticas anticompetitivas entre proveedores que  limitaban la entrada de nuevos proveedores, 
especialmente extranjeros;  y los límites a la concesión de permisos de trabajo para empleados extranjeros reducen la competitivid ad en este subsector de gran intensidad de mano de obra.  En 
conjunto, estos factores han contribuido a que lo s costos de la construcción sean elevados en 
comparación con los de otros países.   
Question:  El párrafo señalado hace referencia al pasado  por lo que México desearía saber si los 
acuerdos restrictivos y otras prácticas antic ompetitivas son menos estrictas actualmente.   
Answer to Korea, EU, India, Peru, and Mexico: 
Restrictions to competition in the construction sect or had been fourfold:  standards and technical 
regulations have traditionally been  both particularly stringent and specific to Switzerland;  several 
professions in the subsector continue to be regulated at cantonal level;  in the past, there have been 
a relatively large number of restrictive arrangements and other anti-competitive practices among 
suppliers that limited entry of new,  including foreign, suppliers;  and the limits on work permits for 
foreign employees hamper the co mpetitiveness of this labour-intensive subsector.   
All these points were addressed in the past years: This spring, the agreement with the EU on mutu al recognition relating to conformity assessment 
was amended by a new chapter recognising the equi valence of prescriptions regarding construction 
products; simultaneously, alignment of  (private) technical standards with international standards 
(such as those laid down by CEN, CENELEC and ESTI) progressed; and an inter-cantonal 
agreement regarding construction standards took eff ect, together with the federal legislation on 
construction products. Technical regulations as an obstacle to trade have therefore largely been 
dismantled. 
The revised Act on the Internal Market took effect ; in the spirit of the interstate commerce clause, 
this legislation guarantees not only the freedom  to provide services across cantonal borders, it 
guarantees also that market access gained in one ca nton shall not be lost when a company moves 
headquarter to another canton (nor shall the opening up of a subsidiary face problems due to different cantonal regulations granting market acc ess); finally permits to do work and fix fittings WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 102  
 
  on the public networks (fresh and sewage water, electricity grid) can now be obtained for the 
territory of Switzerland as a whole. 
As explained in other parts of the report, cartel legislation was tightened, the revision taking effect 
in 2004/2005; bid rigging in public construction projects was detected since, but e.g. also two cartels in road construction (provision of asphalt) burst.  
The law on foreign nationals was revised: When adm itted by one canton to its territory for a period 
of more than one year, the foreign national benefits  of an unrestricted acce ss to the labour market 
throughout Switzerland. This comes in addition to  the free movement of persons agreed with the 
EU and taking progressively effect from June 2002 on.    
Statistics regarding market shares of foreign comp anies in construction activities are missing, also 
with regard to the area of public procurement. There  is only scarce, albeit convincing evidence:  In 
a open procedure, the tender of an Austrian comp any for constructing an important part of one of 
the new railway tunnels through the Alps was accepted, one of the important engineering 
companies in Switzerland is controlled by th e French company Bouygues; and the  British 
investment society Laxey Partners is holding a sha re of more than one third in the biggest Swiss 
construction enterprise Implenia; with respect to tr ans-border service provision, the markets in the 
region of e.g. Basle start to be integrated.     
(INDIA): 
Question: In response to a question raised by Hong K ong China on Construction Services during the 
last TPR it was informed by Switzerland that review  of restriction under National Treatment column 
regarding Mode 4 is under considera tion. India would like to be informed about the present position 
in this regard. Further, would Switzerland be taki ng commitments as per the present position in its 
GATS schedule? 
Answer: 
As indicated in our revised offer from 14 june 2005, we are offering to take back the limitation for 
construction services in respect of mode 4 under the national treatment column. We are thus 
offering an "unbound, except as indicated in th e horizontal part" both  for market access and 
national treatment for trade in all constr uction services in the form of mode 4.  
(ii) Financial services  
(ARGENTINA):  
En el párrafo 92, el informe indica que hay en curso diversos proyectos de reforma del mercado 
financiero suizo, pero que el más importante es el establecimiento de una autoridad independiente 
para la supervisión del mercado fi nanciero (FINMA), cuya entrada en funcionamiento de está prevista 
para 1º de enero de 2009.  
Question: 8 ¿Cuáles son las reformas que introduce este nuevo mecanismo de supervisión con 
respecto al vigente en la actualidad? ¿Cuáles serán específicamente las funciones y las facultades de 
la FINMA? 
Answers: 
The Federal Banking Commission (SFBC), the Fed eral Office of Private Insurance (FOPI) and 
the Money Laundering Control Authority (MLCA) will be brought together as an institution under 
public law through a Federal Act on Financial Market Supervision (Financial Market Supervision 
Act, FINMA Act). At the same time, the sanctions instruments of financial market supervision are 
to be harmonised, streamlined and reinforced.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 103 
 
 
  As a state regulatory body, FINMA is endowed with supreme authority over banks, insurance 
companies, stock exchanges, securities dealers and co llective investment schemes. It is responsible 
for combating money laundering and, where ne cessary, conducts financial restructuring and 
bankruptcy proceedings. In addition, it has sup ervisory powers in respect of the disclosure of 
holdings and is the complaints body for decision s of the Takeover Board in the area of public 
takeover bids for listed companies. 
FINMA grants operating licences for companies an d organisations subject  to its supervision, 
monitors the supervised institutions in respect of  their compliance with the requisite laws, 
ordinances, directives and regulations, as well as with the conditions for the granting of licences 
that must be complied with at all times. Where n ecessary and to the extent permissible by law, 
FINMA imposes sanctions, provides administrative a ssistance and regulates. In other words, it 
participates in the amendment of laws and corresponding ordinances, issues circulars and, where it is authorised to do so, its own ordinances. FINMA is also responsible for ensuring that self-regulation is acknowledged appropriately. 
FINMA is actively involved in the activities of vari ous international organisations and associations 
and makes regular contributions to their work with a view to following and influencing 
developments at the international level. The mo st important international bodies with which 
FINMA is involved are: 
• Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS);  
• International Association of  Insurance Supervisors (IAIS); 
• International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO); 
• Joint Forum (aimed at harmonising supervi sory rules between international bodies and 
supervisory authorities for banks, secur ities dealers and insurance companies); 
• Senior Supervisors Group (SSG); 
• Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD);  
• Financial Action Task Force (FATF.) 
In the international area, FINMA is party to several Memoranda of Understanding which facilitate 
collaboration and the exchange of information between supervisory authorities. 
(a) Banking and fund management services 
Switzerland  
(COLOMBIA):  
81.  Suiza es uno de los centros financieros más importantes del mundo y atrae un gran volumen de 
actividad del extranjero.  Ello se debe en gran me dida a la estabilidad política y económica del país, la 
prudente gestión monetaria, la ex istencia de un régimen abierto de  movimiento de capitales, y la 
tradición de secreto bancario.  El franco suizo es qui nta divisa de reserva más importante del mundo.   
Además, debido a los bajos tipos de interés suizos  la emisión de bonos en  francos suizos es una 
opción atractiva incluso para los emisores que no  son suizos.  Suiza tiene un sistema bancario 
universal;  por consiguiente, los bancos dominan también las actividades relacionadas con los valores 
y los fondos de inversión.   La banca privada es, con diferencia, el subsector más importante y Suiza es 
el primer país del mundo en volumen actividades de banca privada transfronteriza.  Al final de 2007, WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 104  
 
  los bancos suizos administraban depósitos de clientes, tanto nacionales como internacionales, por un 
valor total de 5.235 mill ones de francos suizos. 
Question:  ¿El régimen abierto de movimiento de capital es significa la no imposición de controles a 
los flujos de capital? 
Answer: 
No controls on the free movement of capital are in force in Switzerland, except for those exchange 
restrictions that are imposed against certain countries,  individuals, and entities, in accordance with 
relevant UN Security Council resolutions and EU regulations.  
Question:  ¿En caso de presentarse difi cultades financieras o de balanza de pagos en la economía 
suiza, qué tipo de medidas adopta el gobierno para contrarrestarlas? 
Answer: 
In light of the extraordinary financial turmoil,  the Federal Council, together with the Swiss 
National Bank (SNB) and the Swiss Federal Banking Commission (SFBC), decided at the end of the third quarter 2008 to take measures to strengthe n the Swiss financial system in order to ensure 
the stability of its financial system.  The measures proposed are intended to strengthen one of its 
major banks which is of systemic importance to the financial system of Switzerland through a 
recapitalization and transfer of illiquid assets off its balance sheet.   
These measures address the particular risks facing th e Swiss financial system. It is a temporary 
government intervention with a clear exit strategy an d with the intention to protect the tax payers 
and investors. The Swiss Federal government also decided to strengthen on a non-discriminatory 
basis the desposit insurance guarantee for banks established in Switzerland.  
83. Las actividades bancarias se rigen principalmente por la Ley de Banca y la  Ordenanza Bancaria.   
Para obtener una licencia de la Comisión Federal de  la Banca (SFBC), un banc o debe dar pruebas de 
tener un plan empresarial claramente definido, una organización adecuada, y unos gestores con buena 
reputación;  éstos deben tener su residencia en un lugar que les permita garantizar una "gestión 
responsable".  Las personas físicas o jurídicas que c ontrolen directa o indirectamente el 10 por ciento 
o más del capital o de los derechos de voto, o que ejerzan de otra fo rma una influencia notable en el 
banco (participación cualificada) deben garantizar que su influencia no afectará negativamente a la 
actividad del banco.  Están obligados a hacer una  notificación a la SFBC antes de adquirir o vender 
una participación cualificada o cuando su participaci ón desborde (en más o en menos) el umbral del 
20 por ciento, el 33 por ciento, o el 50 por ciento.  El capital mínimo totalmente desembolsado que se 
exige es de 10 millones de francos suizos. 
Question:  ¿El requisito de que los gestores de los banc os deben tener su residencia en un lugar que 
les permita garantizar una "gestión responsable", sign ifica que deben residir en el territorio de Suiza 
o cuál es el alcance de dicha exigencia? 
Answer: 
In implementing the provisions of the law, it is not required that the persons entrusted with the 
management of the bank must necessarily reside in the territory of Switzerland. But they shall have 
their domicile in a place where they are able to ex ercise de facto their management activity from 
Switzerland. A relevant criterion is for example the transport facilities between their domicile and 
their workplace in Switzerland or how close to the frontier the workplace is located. As regards the 
board of directors of a bank, either the president or vice-president is required to have its domicile in 
the territory of Switzerland.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 105 
 
 
  85.  Para establecer todo tipo de sucursales, filiale s u oficinas de representación de bancos extranjeros 
en Suiza se requiere una licencia de la SFBC.  El  nombre de un banco extranjero no debe inducir a 
creer que se trata de un banco suizo.  El acceso sigue  estando supeditado a la reciprocidad, excepto en 
los casos en que se aplican obligaciones internacionales,  como los Acuerdos de la OMC.  Además, se 
aplican a los bancos los requisitos generales para el establecimiento de empresas extranjeras en Suiza.  
Una vez establecidos, los bancos de propiedad extran jera gozan de la misma condición que los bancos 
suizos.  La SFBC está facultada para supervisar los establecimientos extran jeros en Suiza, pero 
también autoriza a organismos extranjeros a inspeccionar establecimientos suizos de bancos extranjeros.  Desde 2000, la SFBC también concede licencias para bancos y agentes de valores que 
operan exclusivamente por Internet.  La reglamenta ción es idéntica a la de la s instituciones que tienen 
presencia física, incluso en lo que respecta a las disposiciones de debida diligencia y blanqueo de 
dinero. 
Question:  ¿Podría Suiza mencionar algunos de los requi sitos generales para el establecimiento de 
empresas extranjeras que también aplican a los bancos? 
Answer: 
See answer to question Mexico with  respect to paragraph 85 below. 
87. Los 24 bancos cantonales, que pertenecen total o parcialmente a los cantones, concentran sus 
actividades en la gestión de créditos, depósitos e hipotecas en sus respectivos cantones ;  representan 
más del 30 por ciento de la activid ad de la banca nacional;  21 cantones garantizan las obligaciones de 
sus bancos.  Además, los bancos cantonales obtiene n un trato preferencial en lo que respecta a los 
requisitos de capital y a la fiscalidad.  No obstant e, estas normas especiales se vienen examinando 
desde hace varios años, con el objetivo último de a bolirlas.  La Ley de emisión de bonos hipotecarios 
de 1930 solamente autoriza a dos instituciones a emitir  bonos hipotecarios:  la Central de emisión de 
bonos hipotecarios de los bancos cantonales su izos (Pfandbriefzentrale der schweizerischen 
Kantonalbanken) y el Banco de bonos de garantía de instituciones hipotecarias suizas (Pfandbriefbank 
schweizerischer Hypothekarinstitute ).  Únicamente los bancos cant onales pueden participar en la 
primera, y la participación en la segunda se circunscr ibe a aquellos bancos cuya oficina principal esté 
ubicada en Suiza y cuyos préstamos hipotecarios nacionales representen como mínimo un 60 por ciento de los activos de su balance. 
Question:  ¿Podría explicar Suiza por qué para los t res bancos cantonales restantes los cantones no 
garantizan las obligaciones de sus bancos? 
Answer: 
The state guarantee granted by the cantons to their cantonal banks has grown historically. 
Switzerland is a federal state. Therefore, it is upon the individual canton to decide whether and to which extent a guarantee for the obligations of th e cantonal banks is issued. Over the time some 
cantons have eased or abolished the cantonal guarantee. 
Question: ¿Se tiene prevista una fecha determinada para abolir las normas especiales que tienen los 
bancos cantonales? 
Answer: 
With reference to the explanations above, the answer is no. 
(AUSTRALIA):   
The Secretariat report notes the relationship of bank secrecy to tax evasion and tax fraud in both 
Switzerland and Liechtenstein ( WT/TPR/S/208, page 110-112, paras 81-86 [Switzerland]  pages 
113-116, paras 93-103 [Liechtenstein]).  Bank secr ecy laws can distort investment flows and 
undermine the fairness, neutrality and integrity of ta x systems.  Liechtenstein remains on the OECD's WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 106  
 
  list of uncooperative tax havens  and Switzerland has not fully adopted OECD standards of 
transparency and information exchange for tax purposes. However, recent events involving certain 
European banks have refocussed international a ttention on the relationship between bank secrecy 
regimes and tax avoidance and evasion. 
Question:  We would appreciate advice of transparen cy measures implemented by Switzerland and 
Liechtenstein since the last Trade Po licy Review in 2004 regarding bank secrecy. 
Answer: 
Banking secrecy often gives rise to a variety of mis understandings and criticisms that require some 
clarification. Financial privacy is not and ha s never been absolute. Whenever major public or 
private interests demand it, the bank secrecy would be lifted according to Art. 47 par. 4 of the Swiss 
Banking Law. This is of importance not only regarding domestic criminal procedures but also 
(accessory) mutual legal assistance in criminal matters. Substantial requests for legal assistance 
provided, banks can be obliged by Swiss authoriti es to hand out documents for evidence, to give 
information, to release objects or values etc.  
Swiss legislation to prevent the criminal misuse of its financial institutions is very developed. Since 
the last Trade Policy Review, the following important developments have taken place in 
Switzerland:   
• On the 1st of July 2005 the bilateral agreem ent on savings income taxation between the 
European Community and Switzerland has entered into force. In this agreement Switzerland and the EU agreed the exchange of  information in cases of tax fraud or the 
like for income covered by th e agreement. In addition, in a Memorandum of Understanding 
to the bilateral agreement on savings income  taxation Switzerland declared its willingness 
to enter into bilateral negotiatio ns with each Member State of the EU with a view to include 
in the respective double taxation treaty provisio ns on administrative assistance in the form 
of exchange of information for all cases of t ax fraud or the like with respect to items of 
income not subject to the agreement on sa vings income taxation but covered by the 
respective double taxation treaty. This proces s is in progress. Switzerland already has 
concluded with a number of EU Member States revised double taxation treaties. 
• Switzerland has signed the bilateral frau d agreement between Switzerland and the EU. 
This Agreement improve the possibilities for ex tensive administrative and legal assistance 
relating to indirect taxes and subsidy offences.  Switzerland has ratified this agreement.  
• Implementing the 40 revised Recommendations  of the Financial Action Task Force 
(FATF): Swiss legislation already complies to  a large extent with these standards. In 
October 2008, the Swiss Parliament dispatched a package of modifications with the 
objective to optimize the Swiss legislation in  this area. The Package, which extends the 
scope of application of the Anti-Money Laundering  Act (MLA) to the fight against terrorist 
financing, contains several measures which aim to improve the effectiveness of the Swiss system to combating money laundering and terro rist financing and in general terms is 
intended to reinforce protection of Switzerland' s financial centre to prevent it from being 
misused.  
Question:  We seek advice as to whether Switzerland and Liechtenstein will reconsider their positions 
and lift bank secrecy for all tax purposes? 
Answer: 
Switzerland will not reconsider its position and lift bank secrecy for all tax purposes.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 107 
 
 
  With respect to tax offences, it has to be noted that procedures for tax fraud can lift bank secrecy 
and allow corresponding acts of mutual legal assistance. Switzerland has already concluded some 
double taxation agreements (Germany, Norway for e xample) which allow administrative assistance 
for tax fraud, which can also lead to the lifting of bank secrecy. Moreover, regarding Member States of the European Union, Switzerland is pre pared to grant administrative assistance for tax 
fraud or the like. Treaties with Spain and with Great Britain contain such assistance. 
Switzerland agreed to the CFA 2000 Report on im proving access to bank information for tax 
purposes. Furthermore, Switzerland agreed to impr ove bilaterally its exchange of information 
concerning holding companies according to the 2004 Progress Report on harmful tax practices.  
(MEXICO):   
En el párrafo 85 se menciona que para establecer  todo tipo de sucursales,  filiales u oficinas de 
representación de bancos extranjeros en Suiza se re quiere una licencia de la Comisión Federal de la 
Banca (SFBC).  Asimismo, se indica que se aplican a los bancos los requisitos generales para el establecimiento de empresas extranjeras en Suiza.  
Question:  México desea conocer con mayor detalle lo s requisitos para obtener una licencia de la 
SFBC y sobre los requisitos generales para el est ablecimiento de empresas extranjeras en Suiza. 
Answer: 
1. Answer about subsidiaries of foreign banks in Switzerland
 
In Switzerland, a banking license is to be gr anted if the applicant entirely meets all the 
requirements laid out in Art. 3 and 3bis Banking Ac t (BA). The bank then has to constantly comply 
with those initial requirements throughout its acti ve existence which is regularly examined by the 
bank's audit firm. In case of non-compliance th e SFBC will ultimately withdraw the license. The 
formal denial of a license application or the w ithdrawal of a granted license are subject to an 
appeal to the Swiss Federal Courts. A Swiss ban king license is considered  a "universal" license 
meaning that it is not issued for a specialized fi eld such as commercial, investment, private banking 
etc. However, the examination of the requirements (especially the initial capital) in the application 
process depends on the projected activity. 
The Swiss licensing requirements consist of various elements qualitatively and quantitatively 
similar to those of other financial centers. 
As a first requirement the bank to be licensed ha s to provide an organization able to meet the 
demands of the projected business. In this regard its by-laws and internal regulations have to clearly define the type and geographical limits of  the planned banking activity and accordingly the 
internal organization for that activity. Furthermore, the bank's responsibilities and the internal 
control procedures have to be suffi ciently described. The SFBC not only formally approves the     
by-laws and major internal regulations on the oc casion of the establishment of the bank but also 
their subsequent changes and amendments. Within  the organization of the new bank there must be 
a separation between the supervisory and policy maki ng functions of the board of directors and the 
executive function of the management, the same  person may not serve on both bodies, thus 
eliminating or undermining the position of a managing director. 
Secondly, the new bank must have a paid-in capital of at least CHF 10 million. In cases where 
according to the business plan the projected ac tivity requires more funds – which is normally the 
case – the initial capital can go further up. 
Thirdly, directors and managers of the bank must be  competent and fit for the specific business of 
the new bank, i.e., their personal integrity and professional skill as well as their experience must WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 108  
 
  meet the demands of their new task. All license app lications must include the curricula vitae of key 
personnel, extracts of the general registry of criminal records (where available), and references for 
all directors and senior management.  
Forthly, qualified shareholders (directly or indi rectly owning or controlling 10% or more of the 
share capital or the voting rights of a bank and persons who are in a position to substantially 
influence a bank in any other manner) are subjec t to the same "fit and proper" requirements as 
directors and managers. The qualified shareholders  and the banks have a legal duty to report the 
relevant shareholdings and their changes to the SFBC. The SFBC is entitled to enforce the "fit and proper" requirement by suspending the voting rights  of non complying shareholders up to revoking 
the banking license in severe cases. Apart from th is qualitative requirement the banking legislation 
applies no quantitative limitation on ownership in banks. 
Additional requirements for a foreign controlled new bank are stated in Art. 3bis BA. A bank 
qualifies as foreign controlled if one or more fo reign nationals own a direct or indirect interest 
exceeding 50% of the share capital or the voting ri ghts of the bank, or if they exercise a controlling 
interest in another manner. The requirements basically only consist of the proof that the company 
name does not imply a Swiss ownership of the ba nk and an adequate supervision of the parent 
company. In the case of a foreign bank or financial institution establishing the banking entity in Switzerland the SFBC thus obtains a "non objectio n"-declaration of the home-country supervisor 
and - if a financial conglomerate or banking gr oup owns the foreign bank - a declaration of the 
home-country authority that supervises the cong lomerate/group on a consolidated basis. The 
reciprocity requirement, which is also mentione d in the law, has lost its importance due to 
Switzerland's adherence to GATS which requires Swit zerland to apply the most-favoured-nation-
rule to all WTO-members. 
To accommodate the practical needs of the banki ng license applicants the SFBC has published a 
guideline for license applications (http://www.e bk.admin.ch). The guideline contains various 
information and a list regarding the mandatory documentation including, among other things, 
draft instrument of incorporation, draft of by-laws and internal regulations, specific additional 
information regarding the organization (chart, procedures , internal controls, outsourcing,           
IT-structure etc.), business plan (with proj ections for first three financial years), specific 
information and documentation regarding owners (i.e . qualified shareholders) and source of initial 
capital, specific information re garding directors and managers. 
Once the Secretariat of the SFBC has receive d the application along with the necessary 
documentation from the applicant, it will prior to bringing a proposal for approval before the 
Commission of the SFBC carry out a thorough ex amination of the licensing requirements. The 
Secretariat thus provides a certain filtering function. In other words, no incomplete or insufficient 
license application will be brought before the Co mmission. From the applicant's perspective the 
Secretariat has also a service function in that it accompanies the applicant already at an early stage 
in the application procedure and is regularly willing to examine and discuss preliminary banking 
projects and draft applications. On the basis of th is procedure an applicant receives already early in 
the process indications as to the feasibility of hi s banking project. An applicant is nevertheless free 
to request a formal decision from the SFBC if th e indications from the Secretariat regarding his 
application are predominantly negative. However, in the last 5 years no applicant has demanded 
such a formal decision. 
2. Answer about branches of foreign banks in Switzerland
 
Foreign banks and non-banks that wish to operate a banking branch in Switzerland require a 
license from the SFBC. Branch banking is de fined as (i) conducting banking business, 
maintaining customer accounts or generally enteri ng into transactions legally binding upon a  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 109 
 
 
  foreign domiciled bank, (ii) pr ovided that these activities are carried out commercially by 
permanent staff in Switzerland. A foreign bank is defined as every institution (a) organized under 
foreign law which (b) possesses a banking license in a foreign country, or (c) uses the name 
"Bank", "Banker" or similar name or (d) p erforms activities falling under the scope of the 
Banking Act. The Foreign Bank Ordinance ( FBO) imposes the following requirements for the 
establishment of a branch by a foreign controlled bank: 
a) the foreign bank has to be appropriately organ ized and employ qualified staff and have 
sufficient financial resources to operate a branch in Switzerland; 
b) the foreign bank must be subject to adequate supervision, which includes the branch in 
Switzerland; 
c) the responsible foreign supervisory authoriti es must not object against the establishment of 
the branch; 
d) the foreign regulator must confirm that they would immediately inform the SFBC if there 
are concerns that the (financial) interests of the foreign bank's creditors could be seriously 
jeopardized; 
e) the foreign regulator must be able to sha re information and cooperate with the SFBC; 
f) the home-country of the foreign institution shou ld give reciprocal treatment to Swiss banks 
(This criterion is not examined if the home-country is a WTO member); 
g) the management of the branch must be fit and proper and the branch adequately 
organized; 
h) the branch must meet the criteria to regis ter as a branch in the Swiss Commercial 
(Companies) Register. 
If the foreign bank is part of a financial cong lomerate or banking group the SFBC may require 
that the home-country regulator supervises the en tire conglomerate or group on a consolidated 
basis. Unlike affiliates, branches of foreign banks are exempted from complying with capital and 
large exposure rules. Howev er the SFBC may require co mpliance with these  rules if the          
home-country of the foreign bank does not grant similar relief and if no international agreement 
exists. The branch may establish its annual and interim financial statements according the      home-country's requirements, provided that th ese requirements satisfy in ternational accounting 
standards. The accounts may be published in English notwithstanding the fact that English is not an official language in Switzerland. Closing of  a branch requires authorization by the SFBC. 
3. Answer about agencies of foreign banks' subsidiaries or branches
 
The SFBC will grant the Swiss subsidiary or branch of a foreign bank a license to open an agency, 
if: 
a) the home-country of the foreign institution shou ld give reciprocal treatment to Swiss banks 
(this criterion is not examined if the home-country is a WTO member); 
b) The name of the foreign bank's Swiss subsidiary or branch and of the agency  shall in no 
way indicate or suggest that the bank is Swiss controlled; and WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 110  
 
  c) The agency possesses a regulation that precisely defines its business activities and provides 
for an adequate organization. 
4. Answer about reprensentative offices of foreign banks in Switzerland
 
All activities of a foreign branch which do not qua lify to be branch activities but are carried out 
commercially by permanent staff employed in Switzerland are considered to be activities of a 
representative office. In particular, such activities include forwarding of customer orders to the 
foreign bank and undertaking marketing and public relations activities. The operation of a representative office requires authorization by th e SFBC. The SFBC authorizes a foreign bank to 
open a representative office, if: 
a) the bank is subject to adequate supervision; 
b) the foreign supervisory authorities raise no objection against the establishment of the 
representative office; 
c) the home-country of the foreign bank grants  reciprocal treatment to Swiss banks (This 
criterion is not examined if the home-country is a WTO member), and 
d) the persons charged with the management of  the representative office are fit and proper. 
Representative offices are subject to only few reg ulatory requirements. In  substance, representative 
offices only have to send their annual report descri bing their activities to the SFBC within four 
month after year-end. The foreign bank has to report the closing of its representative office in 
Switzerland to the SFBC. 
(PERU):  
Question: Párrafo 89:  ¿Qué servicios financieros no requieren obtener una licencia en Suiza? 
Answer: 
As regards licensing for financial services, paragraph 84 including footnote 40 of the Secretariat's 
Report gives a comprehensive overview of the regulatory framework.
 
(b) Insurance 
Switzerland (Hong Kong):  
Insurance services (WT/TPR/S/208, P. 116, Para. 106;  P. 117, Para. 107; page 119, Paras. 115, 
117 & 118) 
5.  We note from the Secretariat Report that in Switzerland, composite life, non-life, and non-
insurance-related operations are not  allowed; and foreign-owned insurance companies must have a 
representative, which can be either a board member or a director, with residence in Switzerland.  
Similarly, in Liechtenstein, insurance undertakings engaged in life insurance may not be active in any 
other branches of insurance other than a few exceptions; a special ta x is imposed on foreign insurance 
companies; and basic health insu rance can only be provided by authorised non-profit health insurance 
companies.   
Question: We should be grateful for clarification on the relationship between these limitations and 
the existing commitments in insurance services.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 111 
 
 
  Answer: 
Having separate non-discriminatory approval for each  class of insurance activity is required for 
reasons of prudential supervision only and is applied solely to protect policy holders of the 
insurance companies. Hence, this limitation is in li ne with the prudential carve-out as stipulated in 
Article 2(a) of the Annex on Financial Services.  The requirement to have a representative, be it 
either a board members or a director, is in line with the existing horizontal commitments of 
Switzerland under Mode 3. 
(MEXICO): 
En el párrafo 106 se señala que las compañías extr anjeras que en Suiza se dedican únicamente a los 
reaseguros están exentas de la aprobación de la Oficina Federal de Seguros Privados (FOPI) para 
iniciar sus actividades, y no están sujetas a su aprobación, sino que son supervisadas por las autoridades de sus países de origen. Asimismo se indica que cada categoría de seguro requiere una 
autorización especial.  
Question:  México desearía saber cuál es son los requisitos para que una compañía extranjera de 
reaseguros se establezca en Suiza. 
Answer: 
If a foreign reinsurer wants to transfer its principal  office to Switzerland or if he wants to establish 
a subsidiary in Switzerland, he needs approval by FOPI like any other insurer in Switzerland. 
However, the supply of reinsurance services from  aboard into Switzeralnd on a cross-border basis 
is not subject to FOPI supervision, provided that the reinsurer is not incorporated in Switzerland. 
These companies are supervised by their respec tive home country jurisdiction. The special 
authorization that is required for "each" insu rance category as mentioned in paragraph 106 is 
relevant in fact for the conduct of business of direct insurance (if a foreign reinsurer conducts 
direct insurance business into Switzerland he becomes subject of Swiss supervision).  
(PERU):  
Question: Párrafo 106: Con respecto a la existencia de un monopolio público sobre los seguros de 
incendio y de daños por causas natur ales (a los edificios) en 19 c antones, ¿la restricción es para las 
empresas de seguros instaladas en esos cantones o es una prohibición de esos cantones a adquirir 
seguros contra incendios de empres as instaladas en otros cantones? 
Answer: 
In cantons where a public monopoly on fire and natu ral damage insurance on buildings exists, it is 
mandatory to contract fire and natural damage insu rance policies on buildings with the designated 
public monopoly supplier, i.e. other insurance companies, whether private or public, are not 
allowed to supply fire and natural damage in surance on buildings in these cantons. 
(iii) Telecommunications   
(a) Switzerland 
(USA): 
Question: What progress has Switzerland made in developing a plan for reducing extremely high 
mobile termination rates?  Switzerland's rates remain among the highest in any developed country 
market and appear to be significantly above cost, and t hus a major impediment to the efficient supply 
of mobile telecommunications services. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 112  
 
  Answer: 
Mobile telecommunication services supplier having a dominant market position have to provide 
mobile termination rates at cost-oriented prices.  As Switzerland knows an ex post regime, the 
regulator (the Federal Communications Commissi on (ComCom)) may only intervene if two 
operators cannot agree on the conditi ons (e.g. prices) within three months of negotiations and if 
one of them or both make recourse to it. This has been the case in the mobile subsector, but 
involved operators have withdraw n their complaints. Therefore, ComCom has not been able to 
decide on mobile termination rates in Switzerland so far. However, as stated in paragraph 133, the 
Swiss Competition Commission (ComCo) ruled agains t Swisscom and decided that the latterhad to 
pay a fine of CHF 333 mio for abusive pricing on mobile termination rates. Swisscom has appealed 
against this decision which is now being reviewed  by the Swiss Federal Administrative Court. 
Furthermore, ComCo has opened another investi gation against the 3 major mobile operators for 
possible abusive pricing in relation to mobile termination rates.  
(HONG KONG):  
Telecommunication services (WT/TP R/S/208, P. 121, Para. 125)  
6.  We note from the Secretariat Report that following a ComCom (Federal Communications 
Commission) public invitation to tender the univer sal service licence, Swisscom is the only universal 
service provider until end 2017 in Switzerland.   
Question: We would be grateful for clarification as to whether this is an exclusive licensing 
arrangement and its relationship with the existi ng market access commitments  in telecommunication 
services. 
Answer: 
The universal service licence binds the licence holder (c urrently Swisscom) to provide a specific set 
of telecommunications services (e.g. voice telephony,  public pay telephones, services for people with 
disabilities) in all parts of Switzerland and at reg ulated prices. However, every telecommunications 
services supplier has the right to provide the same types of services or any other 
telecommunications service without being obliged to  serve remote areas or to observe regulated 
prices at the retail level. Thus, market access is fu lly guaranted in accordance with Switzerland's 
commitments. 
(JAPAN):   
(Question 4: page121, paragraph 127)  
The Secretariat report explains that cross-subsidi zation of telecommunications services is not legally 
prohibited. Japan understands that the Government  of Switzerland has undertaken a commitment in 
Section 1.2 (a) of its Reference Paper, with respect  to the cross-subsidization, in the schedule of 
telecommunications services. 
Question:  Please explain how the Government of Switzerland secures the prohibition of cross-
subsidization in its legislations. 
(PERU):  
Question: Párrafo 127:  ¿La subvención cruzada ocurre en algún  sub-sector de Telecomunicaciones 
actualmente? 
Answer to Japan and Peru: 
According to Section 1 of the Reference Pap er on telecommunications services, appropriate 
measures shall be maintained for the purpose of preventing suppliers who, alone or together, are a 
major supplier from engaging in anti-compe titive cross-subsidisation. The Swiss Competition 
Commission has the competence to  address such issues. Furthermore, as far as it concerns the 
Swiss legislation on telecommunications, the ordi nance on telecommunications services sets out the  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 113 
 
 
  principle of non-discrimination and stipulates that the dominant suppliers is not allowed  to treat 
other suppliers less favourably than its own busne ss units, subsidiaries or its other partners. This 
aims at preventing major suppliers from engaging in anti-competitive cross-subsidiation, which is 
in accordance with Switzerland's commitments.  
(Question 5: page 122, paragraph 131) 
According to the Secretariat report, 'Swisscom has remained the largest company in Switzerland's 
telecom subsector and is the market leader in ever y telecoms activity either under its own brand or 
through its subsidiaries. As at June 2008, the Fe deral Government held 52% of Swisscom's shares, 
down from 66% in 2005.' In the context of WT O Government Procurement Agreement (GPA), 
Switzerland reported the implementation of domestic  regulations (GPA/15/Add.1), stating "Swisscom 
was privatized in 1998 and, therefore, is no longer  within the scope of the Ordinance. Accordingly, 
the reference to Swiss Telecom on pa ge 3 of GPA/15 should be deleted. ″  
Question:  (1) Please indicate what criteria the Govern ment of Switzerland has taken to decide that 
Swisscom has been 'privatized'.  
Answer: 
According to annex 3 of Appendix 1 of Switzerland's commitments under the WTO Government 
Procurement Agreement (GPA), Swisscom was no t covered under the GPA. For a short time, 
Swisscom was covered in a bilateral and in an na tional context. Soon after the EC and Switzerland 
signed in 1996 the bilateral agreement on certain aspects on government procurement both Parties 
agreed to release their respective telecommunica tion activities from the coverage. The concerned 
Parties came to the conclusion that thei r telecommunication utilities where operating in a 
liberalized context and that the conditions of competition where realized. Until these decisions 
where taken, Swisscom was of course enumerated  on the Ordinance mentioned by Japan but that 
Ordinance is not only a mirror reflecting all commitments of Swizerland under the GPA.  
Question:  (2) Please explain whether or not Switzerland has notified to the WTO of the modification 
to the annex in accordance with GP A in or der to reflect a change regarding Swisscom.  
Answer: 
Since Swisscom was not covered under the GPA, th ere was no reason to notify the outcome of the 
privatisation process to the Secretariat of the WTO.  
(COLOMBIA): 
127. Los proveedores de servicios de telecomunicaci ones deben garantizar la transferibilidad de los 
números y la libertad de elección de proveedores de  conexiones nacionales e internacionales.  Con 
arreglo al régimen de interconexión de Suiza, los proveedores interesados en concertar un contrato de 
interconexión deben negociar ante  todo las condiciones.  Si las negociaciones no han permitido llegar 
a un acuerdo en un plazo de tres meses, las partes pueden recurrir a la Comcom, que resuelve la diferencia y establece las condiciones de interc onexión atendiendo a las recomendaciones de la 
OFCOM.  La LTC dispone que los precios de in terconexión deben basarse en el costo solamente 
cuando exista posición dominante en el mercado;  cuando no exista deben basarse en las normas del 
mercado.  En este último caso, sólo se puede interpon er recurso ante la Comcom para garantizar la 
interoperabilidad de los servicios que forman pa rte del servicio universal.  La ley no prohíbe la 
subvención cruzada de los servicios de telecomunicaciones.  
129. Una enmienda introducida en la LTC, que abre el camino a la liberalización del "último tramo", 
entró en vigor en abril de 2007.  La desagregaci ón del bucle local debe lograrse ofreciendo a los 
proveedores de la competencia dos opciones para tener acceso a ese último tramo.  La primera 
consiste en que el proveedor pueda utilizar sus propias instalaciones de banda ancha y otros servicios 
en los locales del proveedor dominante.  El cable de  cobre entre el cliente y el centro de conexión del WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 114  
 
  proveedor dominante se conecta simplemente al nuevo proveedor, que presta sus servicios 
exclusivamente al cliente en cuestión (desagregaci ón completa).  La segunda opción consiste en que 
el proveedor de la competencia pueda ofrecer servicios por banda ancha utilizando el equipo del 
proveedor dominante durante un período máximo de cuatro años, durante los cuales este último 
prestará los demás servicios.  A lo largo de esos cuatro años, el proveedor de la competencia deberá 
instalar el equipo necesario para poder prestar los dem ás servicios (acceso indirecto, o bitstream).  En 
ambos casos, los proveedores competidores y el dominante negocian libremente los precios.
70  E n  
caso de desacuerdo, la Comcom fija un precio basado en los costos.71 
133. En los casos relacionados con los servicio s de telecomunicaciones, la Comisión de la 
Competencia trabaja en estrecha colaboración con la OFCOM y la Comcom (capítulo III 4) iii)).  La 
Comcom examina cada caso de posición dominante en el mercado en el marco de los procedimientos 
de interconexión.  En febrero de 2007, la Co misión de la Competencia determinó que Swisscom 
Mobile había abusado de su posición de dominio en el mercado y le impuso una multa de más de 
333 millones de francos suizos72, y en septiembre de 2007 dictaminó que Swisscom había abusado de 
su posición dominante en el ámbito del acceso por banda ancha a Internet. 
De acuerdo con la última línea  del párrafo 127, la Ley de Telecomunicaci ones de Suiza no prohíbe 
subvención cruzada de los servicios de telecomuni caciones.  De conformidad con los compromisos 
adquiridos por Suiza en el marco del GATS (doc umento GATS/SC/83/Suppl.3 del 11 de abril de 
1997) en materia de salvaguardias a la competencia,  Suiza  mantendrá medidas adecuadas con el fin 
de impedir que aquellos proveedores que, individual  o conjuntamente, sean un proveedor importante 
empleen o sigan empleando prácticas anticompetitivas. Dichas prácticas entre otras, se refieren a 
realizar actividades competitivas de subvención cruzada. 
Teniendo en cuenta que el pie de  pagina del párrafo 129, menci ona que "La Comcom decidió en 
otoño de 2007 que Swisscom es el proveedor dominante  en lo que respecta al acceso bitstream, pero 
dicha empresa interpuso un recurso contra esa decisión." Y adicionalmente que según la segunda 
parte del párrafo 133, la Comisión de la Competen cia determinó que en febrero de 2007, Swisscom 
Mobile había abusado de su posición de dominio en el mercado y le impuso una multa de más de 
333 millones de francos suizos*, y en septiembre de 2007 dictaminó que Swisscom había abusado de 
su posición dominante en el ámbito del acceso por  banda ancha a Internet, Colombia se permite 
formular las siguientes preguntas: 
Question:  Si la ley de telecomunicaciones no prohíb e la subvención cruzada de los servicios de 
telecomunicaciones, ¿cuáles son las medidas que ha  tomado Suiza para cumplir con el compromiso 
adquirido en el marco de la OMC de impedir la s prácticas anticompetitivas , particularmente aquellas 
relacionadas con los subsidios cruzados? 
Answer: 
See answer on question of Peru and Japan with respect to Paragraph 127 above.  
                                                      
70 Aunque la enmienda a la LTC se basa en gran medi da en el marco jurídico de las CE, la disposición 
por la que se da primacía a las negociaciones es contraria a la legislación comunitaria. 
71 La Comcom está evaluando en agosto de 2008 el precio de la desagregación del bucle local (primera 
opción);  se espera que adopte una decisión en el ot oño de 2008.  La puesta en  práctica del acceso bitstream 
(segunda opción) está bloqueada debido a que no se han resuelto los procedimientos judiciales al respecto.  La 
Comcom decidió en otoño de 2007 que Swisscom es el proveedor dominante en lo que respecta al acceso 
bitstream, pero dicha empresa interpuso un recurso contra esa d ecisión.  El caso está pe ndiente de resolución por 
el Tribunal Administrativo Federal. 
72 La resolución definitiva está pendiente de adopción (junio de 2008), ya que Swisscom Mobile 
presentó una reclamación ante el Tribunal Federal. 
* La resolución definitiva está pendiente de adopción (junio de 2008), ya que Swisscom Mobile 
presentó una reclamación ante el Tribunal Federal.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 115 
 
 
  Question:   ¿Existe en la regulación Suiza obligaci ones dirigidas específicamente al proveedor 
dominante que prevengan e impidan pr ácticas de abuso de la posición de domin io por parte de 
Swisscom como las mencionadas en la última parte del párrafo 133? 
Answer: 
Article 11 of the law on telecommunications lays down the obligations for major suppliers in terms 
of access to their resources and services. Major suppliers have to pr ovide full access to local loop 
unbundling, fast bitstream access (during 4 years), interconnection, leased lines and access to cable 
ducts (subject to sufficient capacity) on a transp arent and non-discriminatory basis and at cost-
oriented prices. Article 52 of the ordinance on telecommunications services sets out the principle of 
non-discrimination and stipulates that the dominant su pplier is not allowed to treat other suppliers 
less favourably than its own business units , subsidiaries or its other partners.  
(MEXICO): 
En el párrafo 124 se indica que en abril de 2007, el  requisito general de la  obtención de una licencia 
para los proveedores de servicios de telecomuni caciones fue sustituido por la obligación general de 
inscribirse en el registro.  Sin embargo, el uso del espectro sigue supeditado a la obtención de una 
licencia. 
Question:  México desearía saber si existen compañí as extranjeras en Suiza que proporcionen los 
servicios de telecomunicaciones y, en su caso, quisiéramos saber si existen requisitos adicionales 
para dichas empresas extranjeras. 
Answer: 
Many foreign companies are operating in the Sw iss telecommunications market. The full list of 
telecommunications services suppliers  is publ ished at http://www.bakom.admin.ch/themen/ 
telekom/00462/00794/index.html?lang=en. 
In the mobile subsector, two operators have a nationwide networks (GSM and UMTS). Foreign 
companies from WTO Members have the same requirements as Suisse ones. 
(PERU):  
Question: Párrafo 124:  El Documento menciona que "el requisi to general de la obtención de una 
licencia para los proveedores de servicios de tele comunicaciones fue sustituido por la obligación 
general de inscribirse en el registro", ¿los requis itos que se exigen para la inscripción en el registro 
son los mismos que aquellos para la obtención de una licencia? 
Answer: 
The conditions demanded to obtain a licence have b een replaced by the general   requirements that 
have to be fulfilled by all telecommunications servi ces suppliers (SR 784.10 Art. 6 Requirements for 
telecommunications service providers (Telecommunications Act)).  
(iv) Postal services  
(a) Switzerland 
(MEXICO): 
En el párrafo 138 se señala que los servicios pos tales no reservados, que también pueden prestar 
operadores privados con licencia, co mprenden los envíos postales inte rnacionales de salida de cartas y 
todos los servicios postales (nacionales e internaci onales) de paquetes de hasta 20 kg de peso.  
Question:  Desearíamos saber si los servicios posta les no reservados  pueden ser proporcionados por 
empresas extranjeras.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 116  
 
  Answer: 
Foreign companies, as any other Swiss company, are allowed to provide any postal services of the 
non-reserved area as soon as it they have been granted a licence (concession). Such services may 
also be services that are part of the provisions of the universal service.  
En el mismo párrafo 138 se indica que todos lo s demás servicios, los liberalizados, pueden ser 
suministrados libremente por proveedores privados, in cluso extranjeros, y no están sujetos a derechos 
de monopolio ni al régimen de licencias.   
Question:  México desearía saber qué actividades comprenden dichos servicios. 
Answer: 
Companies which supply services in the non-reserved area  and that are outside of the provisions of 
the universal service do not need to apply for a lic ence (concession). This is the case among others 
for express and courier services as fo r the supply of parcels above 20 kilo.  
(v) Transport  
(a) Air transport 
Switzerland (EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES):  
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 125, para. 144  
Comment to the WTO Secretariat:
 
With regard to EC technical regulations, it is im portant to note that in accordance with Regulation 
(EC) No 1008/2008 of 24 September 2008 on common rules for the operation of air services in the EC, it is Article 5 on 'Financial conditions for gran ting an operating licence' th at establishes that the 
competent licensing authority shall closely assess whet her an undertaking applying for the first time 
for an operating licence can demonstrate, inter alia, th at it can meet at any time its actual and potential 
obligations established under rea listic assumptions, for a period of 24 months from the start of 
operations.  
In that regard, paragraph 144 should stipulate that  it is the operating licence, not the AOC, that is 
issued on the basis of a business plan that sh ows that the company can meet, under realistic 
assumptions, its actual and potential obligations fo r 24 months, but it does not testify that the 
company will necessarily meet those obligations. 
Answer: 
All companies that provide commercial air trans port services to, from, or within Switzerland must 
have an operating permit and an Air Operator Certificate (AOC). The AOC is based on EC 
technical regulations. The operating permit, inter a lia, testifies that [rest of the § unchanged]. 
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 126,  para. 152   
Comment to the WTO Secretariat:
  
Regarding the European Aviation Safety Agency (E ASA), it is important to note that Liechtenstein 
became a member of Management Board of EA SA in June 2006 and that Switzerland became a 
member in the Management Board of EASA in December 2006. 
(PERU):  
Question:   Párrafo 145:  ¿Cuál es el porcentaje de participación Suiza requerido para que se 
considere a la empresa como "establecida en Suiza"?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 117 
 
 
  Answer: 
The answer to the question is provided in the foot note number 82, page 142 in the french version. 
(b) Overland transport 
Switzerland 
(vi) Tourism  
(a) Switzerland 
(EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES):   
WTO Secretariat's Report, page  129, para. 164  
Question: Could Switzerland explain on which basis cant ons may restrict access to exams for 
foreigners and may restrict the ability of foreign mountain guides and ski instructors to practise 
independently?  
Answer: 
Comme remarque préliminaire nous tenons d'abor d à vous informer que la définition de guide 
touristique comprend plusieurs activités professionnelles.  
La reconnaissance des certificats de capacité est stipulée dans la loi fédérale sur le marché 
intérieur (LMI) incluant l'accord du 21 juin 1999 entre la Confédération suisse, d'une part, et la 
Communauté européenne et ses Etats membres, d'aut re part, sur la libre circulation des personnes. 
L'article 3 LMI prévoit des restrictions à la lib erté d'accès au marché, elles sont notamment 
autorisées lorsqu'elles s'appliquent de la même faço n aux offreurs locaux et sont indispensables à 
la préservation d'intérêts publics p répondérants et répondent au principe de la proportionnalité de 
la dite loi prévoit. Par conséquent plusieurs ca ntons réglementent l'exercice des professions de 
guide de montagne, de professeur de sports de ne ige et d'accompagnateur en montagne, ainsi que 
sur l'offre commerciale d'activités sportives néce ssitant des exigences élevées en matière de 
sécurité. 
(MEXICO): 
En el párrafo 164 se señala que la legislación cantona l sobre guías turísticos ha sido revisada y se han 
abierto las pruebas exigidas a lo s extranjeros, quienes pueden opera r de manera independiente.  
Question:  Podrían indicarnos cuáles son las pruebas exigidas que se han abierto a los extranjeros.  
Answer: 
Voir la réponse à la question des communautés européennes ci-dessus. 
(CANADA): 
The Report states that the Swiss Society for Hote l Credit provides sub-prime loans to small and 
medium-sized companies investing in tourist areas. 
Question:  Could Switzerland please confirm if foreign investors are eligible for such loans? 
Answer: 
Foreign investors are eligible for such kind of  loans by the Swiss Society for Hotel Credit. 
 WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 118  
 
  (vii) Professional services  
(ARGENTINA):  
Question 9:   En el párrafo 172, el informe indica que,  de conformidad con la Ley de Extranjería, la 
entrada de nacionales de terceros países está supeditada a un sistema de cuotas, el cumplimiento del 
criterio de la necesidad del mercado de trabajo y controles previos sobre los salarios y las 
condiciones de empleo. En virtud de esta ley, sólo los trabajadores con un buen nivel de 
conocimientos técnicos pueden acced er al mercado de trabajo suizo.  
Question: 
– ¿De qué manera se determinan las "cuotas " de i ngreso de extranjeros, en qué cantidad y con 
qué periodicidad?  
Answer: 
Quotas are numerical ceilings that are set up annually by the Swiss government. They aim at 
limiting the overall number of foreign workers admitte d into the Swiss labour market. 4000 long 
term residence permits and 7000 short term perm its allowing to work are available every year.  
– ¿Por cuánto tiempo se extiende el permiso que ot orga la autoridad suiza para la residencia 
 de un extranjero? 
Answer:  
Switzerland has got three types of residence permit s. Short term permits are valid for one year and 
can be renewed for a maximum duration of stay of 24 months. Long term permits are valid one 
year and renewable every year.  
– ¿Cuáles son los requisitos que se necesitan para acreditar un "buen nivel de conocimientos 
 técnicos"?  
Answer:  
According to the Federal Act on Foreign Nationals, pr iority is given to qualified and/or specialised 
workers. People with a higher education and several years of professional experience and People with special training and several years of professional work experience may be admitted.  
– ¿Un extranjero puede solicitar permiso para tra bajar en cualquier sector laboral (teniendo 
 en cuenta el criterio de la "necesidad de l mercado de trabajo") o existen sectores 
 específicamente abarcados por esta ley? 
Answer:  
The Federal Act on Foreign Nationals does not provide for any restriction regarding access to 
sectors without prejudice to labour market tests, economic needs tests and issuance of professional 
licences or accreditation. 
(CANADA): 
Paragraph 184 indicates that applicants with fore ign educations who are seeking registration as 
auditors must, "demonstrate the required knowledge of Swiss law. 
Question: What are the procedures required for demonstrating the required knowledge? 
Answer:  
The registrant has to follow a 4 days course organ ised by the Swiss Institute of Certified 
Accountants and Tax Consultants and pass a "Certif icate of required knowledge of Swiss law in 
accordance with the Audit Oversight Act-course for auditors with foreign qualifications".  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 119 
 
 
  (KOREA):   
Medical, Dental, and Veterinary Services  
8. With regards to the GATS schedule of specific commitments of Switzerland in Medical, Dental, 
and Veterinary Services, please provide Answers to the following: 
Question:   
a) Please clarify whether Medical, Dental, and Vet erinary Services are regulated by federal law or 
cantonal law in Switzerland. 
Answer:  
In Switzerland Medical, Dental, and Veterinary  Services are regulated both by federal and 
cantonal law. 
b) Under current laws regulating the Medical, Dent al, and Veterinary Services, is there a regulation 
limiting the type of legal entity of the service pr ovider? I.e., may a medical services provider be 
incorporated as a joint-stock corporation? 
Answer:  
No, there are no limitations to the type of legal entity of the service provider. A medical services 
provider may be incorporated as  a joint-stock corporation. 
c) (If the Answer  to b) is 'yes') With regards to the "unbound" commitment in Mode 3 in the Market 
Access column for Medical, Dental, and Veteri nary Services, please c onfirm whether in the 
current law (either federal or cantonal), fo reign capital participat ion is prohibited. 
Answer:  
No, foreign capital participation is not prohibited. 
d) (If the Answer  to c) is 'no') Will Switzerland consider taking this commitment in Mode 3 (MA 
column) in the near future? If not, what are the reasons? Please clarify. 
Answer:  
For policy reasons, Switzerland is not consideri ng taking a commitment in Mode 3 for the 
mentioned services. 
Distribution Services 
With regards to the GATS schedule of specific comm itments of Switzerland in Distribution Services, 
please provide Answers to the following: 
Question: Please clarify the meaning of the entry "Som e cantons have restrictions on sales area." 
Could Switzerland provide concrete examples of such restrictions that may be found in cantonal laws 
as Geneva canton or Vaud canton? 
Answer:  
An authorisation may be required at the cantonal  or the municipal level for the establishment and 
operation of large-scale distribution facilities, such  as shopping centres. Authorisations are granted 
on a case-by-case and discretionary basis. The final say rejecting an authorisation rests with the 
canton or municipality. However, no economic n eeds tests or other mark et access restrictions 
apply. Such procedures exist, for example, in th e canton of Genève or the canton of Vaud. 
(PERU):  
Question: Párrafo 172: ¿En qué consiste el "cr iterio de la necesidad de l mercado de trabajo"? ¿Cómo 
se determina? WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 120  
 
  Answer:  
The approach of the necessity of the work market refers to labour market tests and economic needs 
tests. More precisely, in Switzerland, combined resi dence and work permits are issued in principle 
upon demonstrating that no local worker can fill the vacant position. 
Question: Párrafo 173:  ¿Cuáles son los pasos necesarios a seg uir para lograr el reconocimiento 
de un título profesional? 
Answer:  
There is no Swiss reglementation of the recognition of a professional title for legal consulting. 
Foreign lawyers are free to work als legal consultants under their own professional title. But they 
cannot be registered for representing in court in Sw itzerland. In order to represent clients in court 
they have to acquire a cantonal lawyer's licence and be registered in the canton in which they have 
a professional address. Modalities for recognition are set by the cantons and vary from canton to 
canton.  
(a) Legal services 
Switzerland (KOREA): 
9. Paragraph 175 of the Secretariat report states the requirement of a Cantonal license to practice law 
as "... graduate degree awarde d by a Swiss university, followe d by practical experience in 
Switzerland of at least one year ...". 
Question:  By limiting the recognition of diploma to 'g raduate degree awarded by a Swiss university', 
are these Cantonal license requirements not in violation of the NT requirement? 
Answer: 
The Swiss commitment applies only for legal advi ce on foreign law and international law. The 
requirement referred to in paragraph 175 does in fa ct not apply to all practices of law and namely 
does not apply to the activities covered by  the said commitment of Switzerland. 
(b) Accounting and auditing services 
Switzerland (KOREA): 
Question: Could Switzerland provide an English version full copy of the "Federal Law on the 
Licensing and Oversight of Auditors (LSR)"? My delegation would be interested to better understand 
the licensing and oversight structure/system in place in Switzerland. 
Answer: 
Legislative texts are available only in the offici al languages of Switzerland: German, French and 
Italian. Only a small selection of acts an d ordinances is available in English. 
(MEXICO): 
En el párrafo 184 se indica que la Ley Federal sobr e Licencias y Supervisión de los Auditores (AOA), 
que entró en vigor en septiembre de 2007, abolió el  sistema de reglamentación autónoma al establecer 
el Organismo Federal de Supervisión de las A uditorías (FAOA), que se encarga de acreditar a los 
auditores.  Dicha ley estipula los requisitos para la  acreditación, es decir, la posesión de un título de 
auditor expedido en Suiza o una combinación de est udios universitarios y experiencia práctica.  
Question: México desearía saber si estas medidas se aplican también a extranjeros.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 121 
 
 
  Answer: 
As of 1 January 2008 individuals and audit firm s that provide statut ory audit services in 
Switzerland require a license by the FAOA. This rule also applies to foreigners who want to provide statutory audit services in Switzerland. A foreign  applicant will be licensed if he meets the 
educational and professional experience requirem ents and has a spotless record. The FAOA can 
recognize foreign educations as equivalent to dom estic educations, if the education is comparable 
to those listed in the AOA, the professional expe rience is equivalent and if the applicant can 
demonstrate the required knowledge of Swiss law. 
(c) Engineering and architectural services 
Switzerland  
(MEXICO): 
En el párrafo 194 se menciona que denominaciones profesionales como "arquitecto", "ingeniero" o 
"técnico" no están protegidas jurídicamente en la ma yoría de los cantones, por lo que no es necesario 
obtener una licencia para ejercer estas profesiones.  Cualquier persona, tanto de nacionalidad suiza 
como extranjera, puede ejercerlas.  
Question: México desearía saber cuáles son los requisitos para que un extranjero pueda  ejercer esas 
profesiones. 
Answer: 
"Two professions (architect and civil engineer) are regulated in some (but not all) cantons . For 
these two profession, an authorisation to exercise the profession is mandatory. The other 
professions of engineering can freely be exercised. In other cantons, all professions, including the 
professions as an architect and a civil engineer,  are not regulated. Prescriptions concerning the 
constructions' rules have to be respected (SIA pre scriptions). Where the profession is not regulated, 
there is not any formal requirement for the exercise of the profession. 
In the cantons maintaining a regulation, a rchitects and civil engineers have to apply for a 
registration in the cantonal register. They need to prove their qualifications. Qualifications from a 
third State may be recognised by the OPET or the Rector's Conference of the Swiss Universities, if the applicant meets the legal requirements.  If the foreign qualification is recognised, the applicant 
can ask for the registration in the cantonal register."  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 123 
 
 
  REPLIES PROVIDED BY SWITZERLAND  
TO THE REPORT BY SWITZERLAND 
I. GENERAL COMMENTS  
(NEW ZEALAND):   
New Zealand acknowledges the objectives contained within Switzerland's external economic policy 
to: improve access to external markets; improve competitiveness by making its products more 
competitive; and integrate the largest possible number of countries into the global economy (WT/TPR/G/208 p.5 para 4).  
Question:  New Zealand would ask why these laudable objectives are not reflected in policies and 
measures in place in relation to agriculture – in particular, the high tariffs on agricultural goods; the 
continued subsidies on agricultural products; and the Price Compensation Mechanism that 
compensates agriculturally based industries for the high domestic prices resulting from agricultural 
support measures. 
Answer: 
In the same vein as the non-trade concerns highlig hted in the preamble to the WTO Agreement on 
Agriculture, Swiss agricultural trade policy is based on the principle of Multifunctionality. The 
concept is reproduced in Article 104 of the Federa l Constitution and calls for the Swiss agriculture 
to contribute to the population's food security an d other goals such as the conservation of natural 
resources. Within this principle, we strive to improve access to external  markets; to improve 
competitiveness by making Swiss products more comp etitive; and to integrate the largest possible 
number of countries into the global economy. 
Inter alia by negotiating a Free Trade Agreement in the food and agriculture sector with the EU, 
its main trading partner, Switzerland seeks improvemen t of access to external markets. Internally, 
three major policy initiatives, namely the agricultu ral policy reforms from  1999-2003, 2004-2007 
and 2008-2011 have strengthened the commitmen t to Multifunctionality and made the Swiss 
agriculture more competitive. Switzerland continu es its gradual liberalisation of the agricultural 
sector in particular also through the active partici pation in the WTO negotiations. As to integrate 
the largest possible number of countries into th e global economy Switzerland applies a generous 
GSP-scheme, including large agricultural concessi ons not only for the LDCs (quota-free duty-free 
on all tariff lines) but also for other developing countries. 
II. ECONOMIC  ENVIRONMENT  
(1) E
CONOMIC AND MACROECONOMIC  POLICY DEVELOPMENTS  
(i) Economic  trends  
(CHINA):   
"… the current instability in international financial markets will no doubt in the short term affect the 
capacity of Swiss banks to create value added, prin cipally because of low prices on the stock market 
and the cutback in mergers and takeovers." 
Questions 4 and 5:  Would the Delegation of Switzerland please specify as to how the present 
financial crisis has affected the Swiss banking system? What can be anticipated for the next couple of 
years? WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 124  
 
  Answer:  
• Due to the turbulences on the financial markets during the end of the third quarter of 2008, 
the Federal Council, together with the Swi ss National Bank (SNB) and the Swiss Federal 
Banking Commission (SFBC), decided to take me asures to strengthen the Swiss financial 
system. The turmoil on the international financ ial markets primarily affects the two major 
banks, which are active in the US market. UBS was clearly more severely hit than Credit 
Suisse. Since UBS could experience a loss of  confidence if markets continued to 
deteriorate, the Federal Council deemed necessa ry a package of measures to strengthen the 
Swiss financial system. The first element of th e financial system measures package consists 
of measures to strengthen UBS (recapitalization and transfer of illiquid assets off the balance sheet).  
• This package is a tailor-made solution addressing the particular risks facing the Swiss 
financial system and not simply a large umbrella. It is a temporary government 
intervention with a clear exit strategy and protects the tax payers. 
• The second element of the package contains pr oposals to strengthen the deposit insurance. 
The package further contains measures contributing to a more sustainable remuneration system and to increase capital requirements  for major banks. The Federal Council also 
expressed its intention to redesign the deposit guarantee system.  
• A report on the long-term perspectives of the Swiss financial sector, which will also deal 
with potential long-term effects of the financial crisis, is under way.  
(ii) Foreign trade and current balance  
(iii) Flows of foreign direct investment  
(CHINA):  
"… In 2004 and 2005, exports of capital showed a sharp rise from year to year…In 2006, direct investment reached a new record of Sw F 94 b illion... From 2007 onwards, however, this trend 
weakened and, as a result, direct investment fell in comparison with the previous year." 
Question 6: What is the forecast of Switzerland for the n ext couple of years with respect to foreign 
investment by Swiss firms? 
Answer:  
Switzerland does not make any formal forecast on foreign direct investment. Therefore, no 
quantification of foreign direct investment in the next couple of years can be given. However, we 
expect Swiss direct investors to be less profitable and foreign markets to grow less in the next two years. The bleak outlook for those two main forces driving Swiss direct investment suggests , that 
foreign direct investment of Swiss companies will recede in 2009. A resumption of foreign direct 
investment activity in 2010 will depend to a la rge degree on the recovery of the international 
economic situation.  
(iv) Macroeconomic policies (CHINA): 
Questions 7 and 8: Does the Swiss government envisage any pl an to stimulate the economy in face of 
the global slowing down? If yes, could the Dele gation of Switzerland please provide some more 
detailed information?   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 125 
 
 
  Answer: 
See response to Chinese Taipei below.  
(v) Economic outlook and risks  
(CHINESE TAIPEI):  
(page 13, paragraph 34) 
The report suggests that, despite a noticeable decline, Switzerland's GDP should continue to grow in 
2008 and 2009… Current forecasts are for growth of  1.9 per cent in 2008, but only 1.3 per cent in 
2009.  
Latest forecasts from the EIU and Global Insight  Inc., however, both anticipate a negative economic 
growth rate for Switzerland in 2009. We have al so noticed that the government of Switzerland has 
taken measures aimed at stabilizing the situation in  the financial sector, a nd the Swiss National Bank 
(SNB) has cut interest rates three times since October.  
Question: 
a. We are interested in knowing whether th e government of Switzerland is planning any 
macroeconomic stimulus programme to  help weather the upcoming recession? 
b. If so, what would be its main features, economic tools and budget structure? 
c. Would employment be an issue that also features in any stimulus plan, and is the social safety 
net sufficient to deal with the consequences of  the expected considerable deceleration in the 
economy ? 
Answer to China (Questions 7 and 8) and Chinese Taipei: 
The report by the Secretariat reflects forecasts as of end of September, before the second shock 
wave hit financial markets. The Swiss Governme nt will release a new forecast on December 15th 
which will take into account the further deteriora tion of financial markets and the spreading out of 
the crisis to the real sector. It is correct that revised forecasts by third parties see growth in 
Switzerland in 2009 close to 0%, sometimes with a slightly negative sign.  
Confronted with this outlook, the Swiss government  started to consider measures to stimulate the 
economy. On November 12th 2008, decisions on a series of measures were taken: (1) Public 
spending in a number of areas will be increased by a total amount of SFR 340 Mio.. The money 
shall be used to launch earlier than planned (infra structure) projects ready to be executed. (2) Tax 
reserves constituted by private com panies were released; the tax credit on these reserves will only be 
granted if companies spend the frozen amount of SFR 500 Mio. within the next two years; 
(3) decisions by Parliament on measures to libera lise trade and to promote growth through internal 
reforms will be spurred up.    
The healthy state of public finances allowed to t ake stimulating measures in an early stage of the 
downturn in the real sector of the economy. Base d on information becoming available on the  
severity of the downturn, the Federal Council will reconsider the appropriateness of the fiscal 
stance. Interest rates were lowered by the Centra l Bank with a view to the cyclical development.  
  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 126  
 
  III. MAIN FOCUS OF RECENT AND CURRENT STRUCTURAL REFORMS AND 
OTHER PRIORITIES OF SWITZERLAND'S ECONOMIC POLICY  
(1) D
OMESTIC POLICY AREAS  
(i) Agricultural policy  2011  
(CHINESE TAIPEI):   
(page 15, paragraph 42)  
The concept of direct payments having proved it s worth, it remains at the heart of the future 
agricultural policy… A report will be submitted to Parliament in 2009.  
Question: Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein please pr ovide further details of the differences 
between the future and the former 'direct payments' policies? 
Answer: 
The report to Parliament will be submitted in 2009 on ly, therefore its content is not yet settled and it 
is not part of Agricultural Policy 2011. The report will cover various analysis about efficiency and focusing of the direct payment scheme and does not aim at immediate changes to actual programs. 
The guidelines will be oriented along the concept of Multifunctionality and the principles laid down 
in Annex 2 of the Agreement on Agriculture. 
(i) Partial revision of the Law on technical barriers to trade (ii) Legislation on electricity supplies (iii) New law on the Federal Financial Market Supervisory Authority (iv) Complete overhaul of postal legislation (v) Revision of the Law on government procurement 
(vi) Implementation of the amendments to the Law on cartels 
(vii) Intellectual property (COLOMBIA):  
61. En cuanto a la revisión de la Ley de Derecho de  Autor (LDA, RS 231.1) , en  vigor desde el 1º de 
julio de 2008, su primera función es la ratificación de  dos tratados de la Organización Mundial de la 
Propiedad Intelectual (OMPI).  La incorporación al  derecho suizo del nivel de protección prescrito por 
el Tratado de la OMPI sobre Derecho de Autor (WCT, sigla de "WIPO Copyright Treaty") y el Tratado de la OMPI sobre Interpretación o Ejecución y Fonogramas (WPPT, sigla de "WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty"), ambos del 20 de diciembre de 1996, permite adaptar el 
derecho de autor a los avances tecnológicos.  El desfase entre el derecho de autor y la evolución tecnológica ha hecho también necesaria una reformul ación de las restricciones del derecho de autor, 
definidas en función de tecnologías analógicas y, por lo  tanto, no adaptadas al entorno digital.  El 
resultado de esa reformulación ha sido una mejor atención de los intereses de los usuarios y los consumidores en la ley.  En particular, se ha revi sado la restricción a favor de la utilización de obras 
con fines privados y se ha adaptado el sistema de remuneración para evitar la excesiva imposición de 
los consumidores que obtienen obras a través de servicios especiales.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 127 
 
 
  Question: ¿Cómo funciona el sistema de remuneración mencionado en el numeral 61 del documento 
WT/TPR/G/208, el cual "se ha adaptado… para evita r la excesiva imposición de los consumidores 
que obtienen obras a través de servicios especiales"? ¿A qué se refiere por "excesiva imposición"?, y 
¿En qué consisten los "servicios especiales"? 
Answer: 
Switzerland applies the blank media levy. Rights owners are remunerated if a consumer makes an 
additional copy of, for example, an existing, purch ased copy through this blank media levy. If the 
same blank media is used to make a copy thro ugh using a download service such as iTunes (which 
in the report is labeled 'special service'), the cons umer pays twice for the same copy (referred to in 
the report as 'excessive imposition'): once through paying the download service and once through 
the blank media levy. Consequently, the extent of using download services by consumers needs to 
be taken into consideration when th e blank media levy is determined. 
(CANADA): 
Part III. Main Focus of Recent and Current Structural Reforms and Other Priorities of Switzerland's Economic Policy; (viii) Inte llectual Property: paragraph 60, page 19: 
The Report by Switzerland notes that recent amendmen ts to the to the Federal Law on Patents were 
made to bring appropriate protection for bi otechnological inventions through patents. 
Question:  1. Canada would appreciate if Switzerland coul d provide further information on the nature 
of these amendments. 
Answer: 
On April 20, 1999, the Swiss Parliament moved on a motion which called for the Federal Council 
to conform the Swiss patent law to Directive 98/ 44/EC of the European Parliament and of the 
Council of July 6, 1998 on the legal protectio n of biotechnological inventions. The resulting 
amendment of the Swiss Patent Act that came into  force on July 1st, 2008 clarifies the conditions 
and boundaries of patent protection for biotechnological inventions.  
Articles 8 to 9 clarify the rights conferred by a pa tent and the limitations to it: The patent holder is 
entitled to prohibit the use of patented self-reproducing material in situations analogous to those 
where he would be entitled to prohibit the use of a pate nted product, that is to say the production of 
the patented product itself (Articles 8a and 8b). The protection conferred by a claim to a nucleotide sequence is limited to the sequence segments that  perform the function as described in the patent 
(Article 8c). Furthermore, Articles 9(1)(a) and (b ) provide for a statutory defence for private and 
non commercial use or for use for experimental pu rposes in relation to the subject matter of the 
invention. Article 9(1)(c) provides for a regulato ry review defence while Article 40b provides for a 
compulsory non-exclusive license for those experimental uses of biotechnological research tools 
that do not meet the "object of the invention"- limitation in Article 9(1)(b). Furthermore, patent 
applicants will newly be obliged to disclose the so urce of genetic resources or traditional knowledge 
(Article 49a). 
The publication of a patent application 18 months after filing, the introduction of a (limited) 
opposition procedure as well as an optional prio r art search for nationa l patent applications 
increase transparency, assure speedy transmissi on of knowledge and improve third-party 
information. 
Part III. Main Focus of Recent and Current Structural Reforms and Other Priorities of 
Switzerland's Economic Policy; (viii) Inte llectual Property: paragraph 60, page 19: 
The Report by Switzerland also notes that recent amendments to the Federal Law on Patents were 
made to implement, "the WTO Resolution on im proving the availability of pharmaceuticals in 
developing countries." WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 128  
 
  Question: 2. Could Switzerland please provide further details concerning the new legislative and/or 
regulatory framework in place to facilitate devel oping countries' access to pharmaceutical products? 
Answer: 
Article 40d of the revised Swiss Patent Act provides for a compulsory license to be granted for the 
manufacture and export of patented pharmaceutical  products or products manufactured based on a 
patented procedure. Exportation is possible to de veloping countries that have no or insufficient 
manufacturing capacity to provide access to th e patented pharmaceutical products needed to 
counter public health problems such as HIV/Aids, tu berculosis, malaria or other epidemics. Article 
40d uses the wording of Article 1 of the Doha Declaration from 14 November 2001 on the TRIPS 
Agreement and Public Health to protect the scope and the fundamental idea of the WTO Decision 
and to prevent new barriers to access to medicines.  
To prevent the exported pharmaceutical products from being diverted to other markets for purposes 
of commercial gain, the Patent Act includes certain measures: Only the amount of pharmaceutical products may be manufactured which is necessary to meet the needs of the beneficiary country. 
The total quantity of the production must be expor ted to the beneficiary country. In addition, the 
license owner must take measures to differentia te the products destined for export under the 
compulsory license from those of the patent hold er and has to affix a notification to the product 
stating that it has been produced under a comp ulsory license according to Article 40d. Detailed 
information on the procedure is availabl e on http://www.ige.ch/e/jurinfo/j6.shtm. 
Part III. Main Focus of Recent and Current Structural Reforms and Other Priorities of 
Switzerland's Economic Policy; (viii) Inte llectual Property: paragraph 61, page 19: 
The Report by Switzerland states that with respect to  copyright, "the restriction allowing use of works 
for private purposes has been revised." 
Question:  3. Canada would be grateful for further deta ils on this amendment to the Federal Law on 
Copyright. 
Answer: 
Article 19 of the Swiss Copyright Act allows for copying for teaching purposes as well as for 
information and documentation purposes. However this license is clearly delimited in order to 
achieve compliance with the three steps test. It is not permitted to copy books, CDs or similar items 
that are commercially available in full or even  a substantial part thereof. Any copying which 
amounts to substituting the sale of a commerci ally available book, or other product under 
copyright, is considered a substantial reproduc tion thereof. Moreover Article 19 in the former 
wording did not extend to paintings, photography and sheet music which lead to a potential conflict 
with e-commerce: A music teacher for instance would illegally copy sheet music if he were to make 
copies for teaching purposes of sheet music he la wfully bought through an e-commerce business. 
Consequently Article 19 was amended to allow for c opying of all works that are lawfully acquired. 
(2) F
OREIGN POLICY  AREAS  
(i) Relations between Switzerland and  the EU  
(ii) Free trade  agreements  
(CHINESE TAIPEI):  
(WT/TPR/G/208 page 6, paragraph 10; page 21 , paragraph 71 & page 40, paragraph 48, and 
WT/TPR/S/208 page 25, paragraphs 31 & 32) 
As the reports indicate, as a complement to its commitment to liberalization through the multilateral 
trading system, Switzerland intends to constitute its network of free trade agreements (FTAs), most of 
which were signed within the EFTA framework.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 129 
 
 
  Question:  Could we please be informed of Switzerlan d's reasons for signing an FTA with Japan at a 
bilateral level? 
Answer: 
Switzerland most of the time concludes its FTAs in the framework of EFTA. However, the 
Agreement under review was negotiated on a bila teral basis because it was Japan's preference to do 
so. EFTA not being a customs union, all EFTA States remain free under the EFTA Convention to conclude bilateral trade agreements.  
It is our understanding that agreements on tr ade in goods and customs treaties concluded by 
Switzerland with third parties apply to Liechtenste in as well, under the Switzerland-Liechtenstein 
Customs Union Treaty.  
Question: Could Switzerland please confirm whether the above-mentioned FTA will also apply to 
Liechtenstein? 
Answer: 
According to the Swiss-Liechtenstein Customs Unio n Treaty of 1923, Liechtenstein is part of the 
Swiss customs territory and will therefore be cov ered by the provisions on trade in goods of the 
FTEPA, including rules of origin and customs matters. 
(iii) Cooperation with developing countries and countries with economies in transition 
(a) Trade policy cooperation 
(b) Trade efficiency/international standards 
(c) Market access 
(EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES):   
para.  79 
Question:   2.  Could Switzerland please inform us under which document its Duty Free Quota Free 
scheme (or "zero-tariff initiative") has  been notified to the WTO? If it has not yet done so, could 
Switzerland indicate when it will intend to do so?   
Answer: 
Switzerland and Liechtenstein have not yet notified the duty free quota free scheme to the WTO in written as this is part of the overall modificatio n of the GSP which still is in process. Currently, 
Switzerland is working on the simplification of  preferences for goods originating in other 
beneficiary countries than LDC, as well as – jointly with Norway and the EC – on the 
simplification of the respective rules of origin. Switzerland and Liechtenstein plan to notify the 
changes in the ordinance on tariff preferences fo r developing countries in the second quarter 2009 
after successfully having introduced simplifie d preferences for goods originating in other 
beneficiary countries than LDC. 
It is stated that Switzerland "gives developi ng countries large reductions in customs duty on 
agricultural and textile goods and even  exemption for all other goods".   
Question:   3.  Could Switzerland please elaborate on the scope and coverage of these reductions, and 
explain which countries are the beneficia ries of this preferential treatment?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 130  
 
  Answer: 
All developing countries are eligible  for GSP treatment if they have not yet attained a high level of 
development. A high level of development is attained  if the countries and territories are no longer 
classified in the list of beneficiaries of development aid of the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) of the OECD. 
For developing countries other than LDC, the uti lization rate for agricultural products is about 
65%, for non-agricultural products about 50 %, varying from country to country. In 2007, 91.5% of all imports of goods originating in developing coun tries other than LDC were imported duty free. 
Product coverage is at 53% of agricultural produ cts and 100 % of non-agricultural products with 
50% tariff reduction for textiles and duty fr ee quota free market access for all other                     
non-agricultural goods.  
Between 2000 and 2 007, trade with developing countries almost doubled (170 % increase). 
(b) Sustainability of exports 
(MEXICO):  
(párrafo 80)  
Question:  Considerando que la sustentabilidad es un ob jetivo trasversal; ¿Qué instrumento de 
política comercial tienen incorpor adas medidas para fomentar la transferencia de tecnologías 
inocuas para el medio ambiente? 
Answer: 
In the aftermath of the World Summit on Sustainable Development 1992 in Rio de Janeiro, Switzerland has assessed different options regarding a more substantive facilitation of transfer of 
environmentally sound technologies. Based on this assessment two main areas of intervention have 
been identified: I) companies have to be prepared  very well in order to be able to select appropriate 
technologies and absorb modern and environmentally  friendly technologies. Therefore, know-how 
transfer on how to improve production processes and how to introduce eco-efficient production 
methods has to be fostered. In addition cond ucive environmental regulations should be 
introduced. II) In order to attract modern techno logies partner countries also need to have in place 
an adequate system of promotion of intellectual property rights. For both of these areas, Switzerland subsequently developed support progra mmes for [a number of] developing countries: 
Switzerland supported the creation of so called Cleaner Production Centres. These Centres aim at promoting services devoted to SMEs regarding resource efficient production methods, use of chemicals, life cycle analysis, product improvem ent as well as technology assessments etc. In 
addition, these centres also advice Governments on incentives schemes and regulations on the 
promotion of environmentally sound productio n methods. The centres work with national and 
international experts and are themselves part of gl obal and regional networks which allow them to 
constantly improve their own know how. In th is regard Switzerland works together with the UN 
Organisation for Industrial Development (UNIDO ) and has become the strongest supporter of 
programmes on cleaner productio n promotion worldwide. With regard to the promotion of 
intellectual property rights, Switzerland establis hed several long term technical assistance 
programmes together with the Swiss Institute for In tellectual Property Rights in order to strengthen 
the regulatory framework conditions. 
Question: ¿Qué instrumento de política económica, com ercial o de desarrollo tienen incorporadas 
medidas para inducir a las empresas a adoptar las normas fundamentales del trabajo y de los 
derechos humanos?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 131 
 
 
  Answer: 
Together with the International Labour Organis ation (ILO), since 2002, Switzerland developed a 
programme called "Factory Improv ement Programme (FIP)" in order to offer services to SMEs 
regarding improvement of workers conditions at company level. The programme is based on a 
modular approach in which companies in developing countries are supported in introducing 
modern worker relations, includin g occupational health and safety, according to ILOs core 
conventions.. Given the very positive results, th is programme will be continued and even 
strengthened under the new ILO SCORE program me (Sustainability through Competitive and 
Responsible Enterprises). The other related progr amme, "Better Work", aims at incorporating 
global companies and their suppliers in order to work along the global value chain; the target 
group are medium to larger scale companies.  
Question: ¿Qué instrumento de política económica, com ercial o de desarrollo tienen incorporadas 
medidas para propiciar la fabric ación de productos de exportaci ón con métodos sostenibles y, 
especialmente en el sector agrícola, la certificaci ón biológica y las prácticas agrícolas adecuadas? 
Answer: 
Switzerland attaches great importance to the promo tion of sustainable production. In addition to 
the support at industry level, there are a variety of programmes aiming at supporting the sustainable production of the agricultural sector. For many years, Switzerland supports the creation of independent and internationally accred itated organic certification bodies. In addition, 
organic market initiatives have been launched in ord er to stimulate local and international organic 
market development. These efforts were followed by substantive programmes strengthening the 
extension services at farm level. Furthermor e, Switzerland has supported the development and 
application of selected voluntary sustainability standards for certain agricultural commodities like 
coffee (Common Code for the Coffee Community, 4C), soy (Roundtable on Responsible Soy, 
RTRS), Cotton (Better Cotton Initiative, BCI) an d Cocoa (Roundtable on Sustainable Cocoa 
Economy, RSCE) as well as Biofuels (Roundtabl e on Sustainable Biofuels, RSB). These initiatives 
are complementary to niche approaches (organic, Fair Trade) and aim at the mass market by 
supporting a multi-stakeholder approach to define pr inciples, criteria and measurable indicators 
for sustainable production and trade (quality, en vironment and social aspects), based on the 
participation and commitment of different interested parties (NGOs, Unions, producer associations, industry and traders). A carefully monitored implem entation phase of the proposed approach then 
follows the successful creation of  the sustainability standard.  
Question: ¿Qué instrumento de política económica, com ercial o de desarrollo tienen incorporadas 
medidas para propiciar el acceso a los recursos ge néticos y reparto equita tivo de los beneficios 
obtenidos mediante la explotación de esos recu rsos, los conocimientos tradicionales y las 
indicaciones geográficas? 
Answer:  
Switzerland was very supportive and directly engaged in developing the Bonn Guidelines for Access 
Benefit Sharing within the International Conven tion on Biological Diversity . In addition, a guide 
for governments, NGOs and private companies has been developed in order to make use and to 
implement effective ABS schemes. In selected par tner countries, specific technical assistance has 
been offered in order to establish or strengthen the necessary regulatory framework in this regard. 
Particular efforts have been made in suppor ting selected partner countries in strengthening 
regulatory frameworks for incorporating traditional  knowledge and also geographical indications. 
A particular focus has been made since 2002 by pr omoting the sustainable trade of biodiversity 
products and services. A large programme, the Bio Tr ade-Initiative,  has been set up together with 
UNCTAD and a number of recipient countries.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 132  
 
  The Swiss Federal Institute for Intellectual Prop erty (IPI) conducts various technical cooperation 
projects, either independently or in collabora tion with other national and international 
organizations. These projects shall make a key co ntribution to the improvement of the economic 
situation in partner countries (investment climat e promotion, penetration of new sectors and 
markets with higher levels of inno vation) through reforms in the field of intellectual property. 
Moreover, they shall strengthen the global protectio n of intellectual property, e.g. through the 
harmonization of international standards in this area.  
On behalf of the Swiss State Secretariat of Econ omic Affairs (SECO), IPI implements bilateral 
cooperation programmes with Viet Nam (which also  addresses issues of access to genetic resources 
and traditional knowledge), Azerbaijan and Ghan a. Additional projects with Jamaica and Kenya 
focus specifically on the protection of geographical indications. 
Question:  Con relación a la política nacional en materia de Cambio Climático, en particular de sus 
programas de producción, intercambio  de derechos de emisión de CO
2 y el fortalecimiento de las 
instituciones a través de sus proyectos experiment ales ¿Cuántos años llevan instrumentando estos 
programas experimentales; ¿cuáles han sido los impac tos comerciales y económicos en los sectores 
industriales involucrados? 
Answer:  
As the CO 2-tax and the emissions trading were first introduced in 2008 it is too early to make a 
statement about their real economic impacts. Acco rding to a published study, no significant 
macroeconomic effects are expected  due to the exemption of energy-intensive companies from the 
CO 2-tax (if they reduce their CO 2 emissions) and the redistributio n of the revenues to the public 
and the economy. In the long run the tax, combined with the "Klimarappen", might even 
strengthen the GDP. Concerning the effect on different sectors, losses in added value are 
anticipated for the energy industry whereas returns  are expected for the services sector und the 
building industry (jobs are created). The tax has positive impact on innovations and technological 
progress.  
The evaluation of the program "SwissEnergy" that was introduced in 2001 shows that the program 
has a positive impact on the employment in the bu ilding and building equipment industry. With one 
public Swiss franc private investments of 14 Swiss francs have been initiated.  
In the long run, a reduction in total greenho use gas emissions by 20 percent from 1990 to 2020 
comes with marginal economic effects accord ing to a recently published study. Moreover no 
serious structural changes in the invol ved industrial sectors are expected.   
(iii) Revision of the Customs Law and customs measures 
(PERU):  
Question:  Párrafo 83:  Explicar qué quiere decir que "la nueva  Ley de Aduanas facilita la ejecución de 
disposiciones legislativas de la Confederación di stintas de las aduaneras". Si es necesario, precisar 
con algún ejemplo. 
Answer: 
The new Law of Customs facilitates the execution of boarder measures that are not related to 
Customs. Examples are perception of taxes, security  of imports and exports, sanitary measures and 
police security. 
Párrafo 84:  Suiza informa que no ha adoptado el Anexo H del Convenio de Kyoto por que este no se 
corresponde con el derecho suizo.    WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 133 
 
 
  Question:  En ese contexto, ¿cuál seria el sentido de la no correspondencia con el derecho suizo si 
nos referimos a la definición de "infracción aduanera " y "la presentación de garantía para levantar 
un embargo o retención"? 
Answer:  
The Annex H of the Agreement of Kyoto is not cons istent with the Swiss right . The concept of  
"administrative settlement of a Customs offence" does not match with any act of the Swiss right. 
The standards 24 and 25, as stipulated in th e annex, would not be applicable as such. 
(v) Government  procurement  
(vi) Export  promotion  
(vii) Other external policy  priorities  
(b) Environment 
(MEXICO):  
(párrafo 89) 
En materia de medio ambiente, incluidos los residuos  peligrosos, los productos químicos tóxicos, los 
biocidas y las sustancias que destruyen la capa de ozono.   
Question: ¿Con cuántos países tienen mecanismos de prom oción y la transferencia de tecnologías 
ambientales?  
Answer: 
Switzerland is supporting – through UNITAR – the SAICM implementation program with Belarus, 
Pakistan, Panama, Tanzania and Mongolia. Fu rther, Switzerland and UNIDO have a strategic 
partnership for the establishment of National Clea ner Production Centers (assessment and training 
for eco-efficient production in the industry). UN IDO's new multi-donor trust fund for cleaner 
production will cover about 40 countries, and will also address issues such as chemical management and chemical leasing. In a few se lected countries, Switzerland has assisted in 
eliminating POPs contained in pesticides and in power transformers and is assisting North Korea 
with chemicals management (including POPs). Further, Switzerland is supporting China, India, 
South Africa, Colombia and Peru to set-up en vironmentally sound recycling systems for electronic 
waste (e-waste recycling). Switzerland is also su pporting India eliminating CFC in the refrigeration 
and air conditioning service sector and Kyrgistan in  developping a national plan to address primary 
mercury mining. However, the main mechanism of  technology transfer are private investments. 
For example, the Swiss e-waste recycling system op erator SENS is studying possibilities to capture 
and destroy CFCs in old refrigerators in developing countries. 
Question: Con relación al plan nacional de Suiza sob re medidas sobre el tema de la diversidad 
biológica derivadas del Convenio sobre la Diver sidad Biológica, ¿Suiza cuenta con un trabajo 
avanzado al respecto para construir un informe similar al informe "Stern"? 
Answer: 
The OECD Environmental Performance Review (EPR) of 2007 noted that Switzerland was missing 
a National Biodiversity Strategy and recommended to  prepare and adopt such a stragegy and to set 
precise objectives and timetables which anticipate, inter alia, the effects of climate change. A National Biodiversity Strategy is now being elab orated in Switzerland and the idea of a report 
similar to the Stern Report has b een mentionned in that context. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 134  
 
  Sírvanse proporcionar, en la medida de lo posible, una evaluación de las implicaciones de dicho 
trabajo en términos de costos y beneficios para Suiza.   
Question: ¿Que medidas de mitigación han sido  o deberían ser adoptadas por Suiza?  
Answer: 
A National Biodiversity Strategy is now being elaborated  in Switzerland. It is to early to answer that 
question. 
Question: ¿En qué medida dicho plan nacional limita  la discrecionalidad de las autoridades suizas 
en materia de políticas medio ambientales sobre las políticas comerciales y/o viceversa?  
Answer: 
Trade related effects of a National Biodiversity Strategy are now being discussed. It is to early to 
assess in what extent they will influence each other.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 135 
 
 
  OMC - Examen de politique commerciale de la Suisse et du Liechtenstein 
Réponses aux questions des Membres 
Déclaration de Madame l'Ambassadeur M.-G. Ineichen-Fleisch 
Déléguée du Conseil fédéral aux accords commerciaux 
16 décembre 2008 
Introduction  
Monsieur le Président, j'ai enregistré avec une grande satisfaction les remarques très positives de 
beaucoup de Membres au sujet de l'évolution de la  politique commerciale de la Suisse et de notre 
engagement en faveur du système commercial multilatéral. Par ailleurs, nous avons reçu 
264 questions écrites et orales parfois provocatrices mais toujours stimulantes qui démontrent 
clairement l'intérêt que les Membres portent à notre politique commerciale. Je les en remercie 
vivement. Pour notre part, nous avons fourni dès lundi nos réponses à l'ensemble des questions qui 
nous sont parvenues jusqu'au 12 décembre 2008. Ce t après-midi, les Membres recevront encore les 
réponses écrites à l'ensemble des questions écrit es que nous avons reçues depuis lors. Dès lors, 
permettez-moi de saisir l'occasion qui m'est donnée aujourd'hui de reprendre certains des points les 
plus importants que les Membres et le présentateur, Monsieur Faizel ISMAIL, ont soulevé dans leurs 
déclarations orales et/ou dans les questions écrites qu'ils nous ont adressées. 
Comme vous l'avez proposé, Monsieur le Président, je  structurerai mon intervention de réponse orale 
en trois parties qui reflètent les principaux thèmes  couverts dans le rapport du Secrétariat. Dans une 
première partie, je traiterai des questions pr incipales qui ont été traitées sous le titre de 
l'environnement économique et du cadre institutio nnel de notre politique commerciale. Dans une 
seconde partie, je traiterai des qu estions ayant trait aux politiques co mmerciales et à leurs instruments 
et enfin, dans une troisième partie, je c ouvrirai les questions sectorielles principales. 
Environnement économique et cadre institutionnel de la politique  commerciale  
Pour ce qui est de l'environnement économique , il ne fait pas de doute que la Suisse a changé en 
quatre ans. Les efforts entrepris pour réformer les structures de notre économie ont été mis en 
évidence. L'évolution économique de ces cinq dernières années avec une croissance économique 
moyenne de l'ordre de 3 pour cent – un résultat qui  n'avait plus été atteint depuis les années quatre-
vingt – suggère que nous sommes sur la bonne voie. Comme nous l'avons souli gné lundi dernier, nous 
entendons poursuivre ces réformes car elles sont une condition nécessaire à une croissance durable, 
particulièrement à un moment où l'économie m ondiale et donc aussi la Suisse affrontent un 
ralentissement économique prononcé suite à l'éclatemen t de la pire crise fina ncière depuis les années 
trente.  
Divers membres, dont le Canada, la Chine, la No rvège, Singapour, la Turquie ainsi que Monsieur 
Ismail nous ont posé plusieurs questions sur la situ ation macroéconomique et l'impact de la crise 
financière en Suisse. Comme je l'ai déjà indiqué hier, la Suisse part d'une situation économique et 
budgétaire favorable. Mais vu l'importance de notre  secteur extérieur et du poids des banques dans 
notre PIB, nous ne pourrons pas échapper aux c onséquences d'un sévère ralentissement économique 
voire d'une récession mondiale. Compte tenu du rale ntissement économique très fort qui est attendu, 
notre Gouvernement a décidé à la mi-novembre des m esures visant à soutenir la situation économique 
et de l'emploi en Suisse.  
Comme je l'ai expliqué lundi, ces mesures seront tr ès ciblées. Elles viseront, d'une part, à anticiper des 
dépenses à hauteur d'environ 340 millions de francs en 2009, utilisant ainsi, dans le cadre de la 
politique financière, la marge de ma nœuvre existante au titre du frein à l'endettement. D'autre part, il WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 136  
 
  sera procédé à une libération des réserves de crise qui ont bénéficié dans le passé d'allègements 
fiscaux, à hauteur de 550 millions et qui avaient ét é justement été accumulées en prévision d'une telle 
situation. En tout, les montants libérés au début de  2009 s'élèveront à quelque 890 millions de francs. 
Le Gouvernement a aussi prévu d'e ngager une deuxième étape si la  situation économique devait se 
détériorer notablement d'ici à la fin du 1
er trimestre 2009. Dans ce cas, la marge de manœuvre entière 
en matière de politique financière serait utilis ée. Le Gouvernement a d'ores et déjà chargé 
l'administration de préparer des dépenses d'un demi  milliard de francs suscep tibles d'influer sur la 
conjoncture et pouvant intervenir à court terme.  
Ces mesures peuvent paraître modestes. Cependant, il  faut être conscient que la marge de manœuvre 
des autorités suisses en matière de relance budgétair e est limitée et pas seulement pour des raisons 
budgétaires. D'abord, différentes études ont soulig né les effets économiques limités que peut avoir 
une relance budgétaire dans une petite économie sous un régime de changes flexibles.  
Deuxièmement, en Suisse, le budge t fédéral ne représente guère qu'environ un tiers du total des 
finances publiques totales de la Suisse, les budgets  des cantons et des communes couvrant les deux 
autres tiers des finances publiques Troisièmement, une relance par une réduction des recettes fiscales 
ou des chèques aux ménages comme les Etats-Unis l'ont par exemple fait au printemps dernier, 
n'aurait sans doute guère d'impact sur l'économie in térieure du fait qu'une grande partie de ces 
transferts aux ménages ne ferait guère qu'accroîtr e leur épargne. Par ailleurs cela ne bénéficierait 
qu'aux importations dans un pays qui achète l'essen tiel de ses produits de consommation à l'étranger. 
Enfin, à moins de mettre en oeuvre des mesures ciblées et déjà planifiées, un véritable plan de relance basé sur de nouvelles mesures risquerait d'interven ir trop tard pour exercer une influence positive sur 
la phase de ralentissement conjoncturel et pourrait même exercer un effet procyclique non 
souhaitable. 
La Chine, les Etats-Unis, l'Inde et la Norvège ont  également soulevé la question de savoir dans quelle 
mesure la crise financière actuelle a affecté le sy stème bancaire suisse. En  raison des turbulences sur 
les marchés financiers durant la fin du troisième trimestre de 2008, le Conseil fédéral, a décidé 
d'entente avec la Banque Nationale suisse (BNS) et la Commission fédérale des banques (CFB) de 
prendre des mesures pour renforcer le système financ ier suisse. L'agitation sur les marchés financiers 
internationaux affecte en premier lieu les deux grandes banques qui sont actives sur le marché américain, UBS étant encore plus affectée que Credit Suisse. Comme il était possible qu'UBS puisse éprouver une perte de confiance si les marchés continuaient à se dété riorer, le Conseil Fédéral a jugé 
nécessaire de mettre sur pied un paquet de mesures pour fortifier le système financier suisse. Le 
premier élément de ce paquet de mesures a consisté en des mesures visant à renforcer UBS 
(recapitalisation et mise hors bilan d'actifs illiquides) . Ce paquet représente une solution sur mesure 
qui s'attaque aux risques particulie rs auquel le système financier sui sse fait face. Il ne s'agit donc pas 
d'un large parapluie accordé aux banques. C'est une intervention du Gouvernement qui est temporaire, 
avec une stratégie de sortie clairement définie qui protège les contribuables. Le second élément du 
paquet contient des propositions visant à renforcer la  protection des dépôts. En outre, il renferme des 
mesures qui contribuent à un système de rémunérations  plus soutenable et à augmenter les exigences 
en matière de capital pour les banques les plus impor tantes. Le Conseil fédéral a aussi exprimé son 
intention de revoir le système de la garantie d es dépôts. Un rapport sur les perspectives à long terme 
du secteur financier suisse qui traitera aussi d'effets à long terme potentiels de la crise financière est, 
en outre, en préparation. 
Pour ce qui est du cadre institutionnel
 de notre politique commerciale, je note tout d'abord que 
plusieurs Membres, notamment l'Australie, la Co mmission des Communautés eu ropéennes, la Corée, 
le Taipei chinois ont évoqué la question de notre pa rticipation à divers accords de libre-échange. Nous 
avons répondu par écrit aux questions spécifiques que ces Membres ont posé notamment en relation 
avec les accords récemment conclus avec le Canada et  le Japon. J'aimerais néanmoins souligner une 
fois encore, dans ce contexte, que si la capacité  de conclure des accords commerciaux régionaux est 
un moyen complémentaire de s'ouvrir au marché global, notre première priorité demeure le  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 137 
 
 
  renforcement du système commercial multilatéral. Pour  le Gouvernement suisse, l'intégration dans 
l'économie mondiale passe par l'appartenance à l'OM C. Tous les pays candidats à l'accession l'ont 
d'ailleurs parfaitement compris. Cependant, cela ne  saurait suffire et nous considérons que les accords 
de libre-échange peuvent représenter un moyen comp lémentaire pour accélérer la libéralisation des 
échanges sur le plan international, notamment dans des domaines qui ne font actuellement pas encore, 
ou seulement en partie, l'objet de négociations à l'OMC. C'est ainsi que dans nos accords les plus 
récents, nous avons inclus, outre la libéralisation d es échanges de biens et de  services, également des 
clauses en relation avec les marchés publics,  la concurrence, l'investissement, la propriété intellectuelle, voire la facilitation des échanges qui  vont souvent plus loin que les engagements 
multilatéraux à l'OMC. 
Dans le domaine des investissements, l'Argentine et la Colombie ont soulevé en particulier la question 
des allègements fiscaux que les cantons peuvent accord er pendant une durée maximale de dix ans. Il 
convient de noter que ces exonéra tions peuvent prendre différentes formes car elles dépendent des 
législations cantonales. Il peut s'agir d'exonérati ons d'impôt sur le revenu d'entreprise ou de l'impôt 
sur le capital pour une période de 5 ou 10 années. En général, l'exemption est réduite avec le temps. Il 
peut aussi s'agir de la constitution de réserves non taxées pour des investissements futurs ou de la 
possibilité de reporter l'ensemble des pertes réalisées pendant la période d'exemption d'impôt. Pour 
bénéficier de ces allègements d'impôts, l'entrepri se récemment créée doit représenter un intérêt pour 
notre économie. Le gouvernement cantona l décide de la nature et de la durée de l'exonération d'impôt. 
Des critères tels que le nombre d'emplois ou le  montant des salaires payés, le développement 
technologique, l'ouverture de nouv eaux marchés ou la production de  nouveaux biens ou de services 
qui sont complémentaires à des produits exista nt peuvent être pris en considération.  
Le Chili a, quant à lui, soulevé la question des exoné rations liées à la participation qui sont accordées 
sous forme de réduction de l'impôt  sur les bénéfices d es sociétés qui détiennent au moins 20 pour cent 
des parts d'une autre société ou qui représentent un investissement d'une valeur commerciale d'au 
moins CHF 2 millions dans une autre société. En Suis se, l'impôt sur le revenu des entreprises est levé 
sur le profit des entreprises. Si le même profit est versé à la société-mère puis à ses actionnaires, il est 
encore soumis à l'impôt sur le revenu (des entrepri ses). Pour éviter une trip le taxation économique, la 
Suisse a adopté un système par lequel une entreprise qui reçoit des dividendes ou des gains en capital 
de participations répondant à ces critères (à sa voir 20 pour cent ou CHF 2 million) peut demander un 
rabais fiscal sous la forme d'une  réduction de l'impôt sur le reve nu d'entreprise. Les entreprises qui 
répondent à ces critères peuvent réduire leur impôt su r le revenu d'entreprise en fonction du ratio entre 
les revenus nets sur ces participa tions et les profits nets totaux . Comme le profit d'une compagnie est 
taxé aux trois niveaux, fédéral, cantonal et co mmunal, l'allègement d'impôt est accordé aux trois 
niveaux pour éviter une triple ta xation du revenu qui dérive des pa rticipations répondant aux critères 
mentionnés.  
La Corée, la Colombie et l'Inde se sont, pour  leur part, enquises des conditions pour établir une 
société, investir ou obtenir un permis de travail. En fait, la Suisse ne fait pas de distinction formelle 
entre un permis de travail et un pe rmis de résidence. Un permis de  résidence qui autorise à travailler 
est accordé à un ouvrier étranger s'il est qualifié et/ou spécialisé et dispose de l'expérience de travail 
professionnelle nécessaire. Des limitations relatives aux ouvriers immigrés sont applicables. Elles 
impliquent des tests sur le marché du travail, un  contrôle préalable des conditions salariales et 
d'emploi ainsi que des plafonds numériques. Les exig ences de la qualification ne s'appliquent pas aux 
investisseurs et aux entrepreneurs créateurs d'opportunités d'emploi, aux personnes reconnues des 
mondes scientifique, culturel ou sportif ainsi qu'aux pe rsonnes immigrant dans le cadre de transferts 
de cadres internationaux et de personnes d'impor tance économique pour les relations d'affaires 
internationales. Pour ce qui est de l'admission de ressortissants de pays tiers (hors CE et AELE) 
soulevée par la Colombie, il convient de noter qu'e lle est largement du domaine de la compétence des 
cantons. Le Gouvernement fédéral pe ut certes renverser une décision positive d'un canton, mais il ne 
peut pas forcer un canton à admettre un ressortissant de  pays tiers contre sa volonté. La législation de WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 138  
 
  l'immigration fédérale et les directives des auto rités de l'immigration fédérales fournissent des 
directives obligatoires, mais laissent aux autor ités cantonales suffisamment de pouvoir de discrétion 
pour décider de l'acceptation des candidatures individu elles au cas par cas. La mise en application est 
aussi au premier chef du ressort des autorités d'immigration cantonales.  
FIN DE LA PREMIERE INTERVENTION 
Instruments de la politique  commerciale
 
Permettez-moi, Monsieur le Prés ident, de répondre maintenant à quelques questions de portée plus 
générale en rapport avec les instru ments de la politique commerciale. 
La Chine, El Salvador, la Nouvelle-Zélande et le  présentateur ont soulevé la question du maintien par 
la Suisse de droits spécifiques pour l'ensemble de s es positions tarifaires. Il se trouve que le système 
suisse a été utilisé de manière consistante pendant des années . Il est donc bien connu des opérateurs 
économiques. Le système est simple et prévisib le. Il ne pose donc pas de problème dans son 
application quotidienne. Je ne pense donc pas que l'on puisse dire qu'il manque de transparence. Il est 
d'ailleurs intéressant de noter que plusieurs Membre s qui ont critiqué la Suisse pour son système de 
droits de douane spécifiques conservent eux-même s des droits de douane autres qu'ad valorem. 
J'aimerais aussi rappeler que l'article II du GATT 1994 ne prescrit pas le type de droits de douane que 
doit avoir un Membre. La seule obligation est que l es droits appliqués ne so ient pas supérieurs aux 
droits consolidés dans la liste d'engagement OMC,  une disposition que la Suisse respecte pleinement. 
Un éventuel passage au système ad valorem  est actuellement discuté da ns les négociations du Cycle 
de Doha. La Suisse, comme les autres Membres de l'OMC, se conformera aux décisions prises par l'ensemble des Membres à l'issue des négociations.  
De même, Hong Kong, Chine nous a po sé la question de savoir si la Suisse avait l'intention d'éliminer 
complètement les droits de douane des quelque 42 pour cent de lignes tarifaires qui comportent de 
faible droits de douane compris entre 0 et 2 pour  cent. La Suisse considère, à cet égard, que les 
importations sont facilitées à la fois par des procé dures douanières rapides et efficientes ainsi que par 
des taux de droits de douane moyens faibles. Au contraire, les autorités suisses considèrent que ce 
sont clairement des droits de douane élevés qui constituent une nuisance pour les exportateurs. 
D'ailleurs, j'aimerais préciser que, même sans droits de douane, les marchandises sont soumises de manière générale à la taxe à la valeur ajoutée qui est prélevée par la  douane, de sorte que l'existence 
de faibles droits de douane ou leur absence n'a au cune incidence sur le coût ou la rapidité des 
procédures de dédouanement. Les résultats des né gociations en cours dans le Cycle de Doha 
détermineront, pour leur part, les pr ogrès qui pourront être réalisés da ns la réduction ou l'élimination 
complète de ces faibles droits de douane,   
Pour ce qui est des préférences tarifaires que la Commission des Communautés européennes a 
mentionné dans ses questions, j'aimerais mettr e en évidence l'importance essentielle pour les 
producteurs dans les pays bénéficiant de règles d'or igine harmonisées afin de ne pas compliquer leur 
tâche avec des réglementations multiples. C'est pourquoi, par un échange de lettres, la Norvège, 
l'Union européenne, la Suisse et le Liechtenstein  se sont mis d'accord pour appliquer des règles 
d'origine semblables, à partir du 19 juillet 2002, afin d'harmoniser ces règles et de faciliter leur mise 
en oeuvre par les pays bénéficiaires. Afin de ma intenir une telle harmonisation des règles d'origine 
dans toute l'Europe, la Suisse et le Liechtenstein s ont en train d'évaluer la réforme prévu des règles 
d'origine de l'Union europée nne dans le cadre du système généralisé de préférences. 
La Corée, le Mexique, le Pakistan, le Taipei chinoi s, ainsi que le présentateur ont soulevé la question 
du maintien en Suisse de certaines entreprises de  commerce d'Etat et d'entreprises publiques 
notamment dans le commerce du sel, dans la production et la distribution d'électricité et d'eau ainsi 
que dans la distribution de gaz. Pour ce qui est du sel, son commerce a, pour des raisons historiques  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 139 
 
 
  fait l'objet d'un monopole exercé par les cantons au ni veau sub-fédéral et n'entre donc pas dans la 
compétence du gouvernement fédéral. Ce monopole a été introduit à l'époque pour des raisons de 
santé publique afin de combattre le  développement du goitre en assurant l'addition au sel d'iode et afin 
de garantir une offre de sel à des prix abordables et unifiés à travers le pays. Le rapport du Secrétariat 
suggère que la Suisse maintiendrait des restrictions  dans le transport ferroviaire. Ceci n'est que 
partiellement correct car le transport par rail de ma rchandises est libéralisé et ce n'est que le transport 
de personnes qui est soumis à des restrictions. Pour ce qui est de la situation des industries de réseau, 
j'y reviendrai plus tard lorsque j'aborderai les aspects sectoriels. 
De même, la Colombie et le Brésil ont posé d es questions en relation avec le monopole exercé par 
Alcosuisse en matière d'éthanol et de bioéthanol à haut degré d'alcool. J'aimerais tout d'abord préciser 
qu'il n'existe en Suisse pas de restrictions comm erciales dans le domaine des  alcools jusqu'à 
80 degrés ni en matière de biocarburants. Pour ce qui est plus particulièrement des bioéthanols, le but 
de la loi adoptée par la Suisse est d'encourager  la durabilité des combustibles fabriqués à base de 
produits renouvelables. La loi qui est actuellement en phase de mise en oeuvre accordera l'exemption d'impôt à certaines conditions, à savoir : que ces combustibles produisent 40 pour cent de moins 
d'émissions de gaz à effets de serre que les combustibles fossiles; que ces combustibles ne polluent 
pas davantage l'environnement que les combustibles foss iles; que la culture des plantes entrant dans la 
production des biocarburants ne mette pas en danger la  biodiversité et les forêts tropicales; et enfin 
que, dans le cadre de cette culture et production de biocarburants, la lé gislation sociale applicable à la 
production locale ou au moins les standards minimaux de  l'OIT soient respectés. Enfin, je noterai que 
cette loi est compatible avec les règles de l' OMC car non discriminatoire puisque ces conditions 
s'appliquent à tous les biocarburants  indépendamment de leur origine.  
Dans le domaine des mesures sanitaires et phyto sanitaires, la Suisse poursuit l'harmonisation de ses 
standards avec les normes européennes. Je tiens à souligner que de ce rappr ochement résultera une 
simplification des règles pour les exportateurs car, en remplissant les critères en vue d'une exportation 
vers l'Union européenne, les opérateurs pourront  automatiquement exporter vers la Suisse.  
Dans ce domaine, le Canada et les Etats-Unis nous ont posé des questions en relation avec les 
organismes génétiquement modifiés (OGMs) qui font l'objet d'un moratoire jusqu'en 2010. J'aimerais 
tout d'abord rappeler que ce moratoire a été adopté en votation populaire en 2005 par 55.7 pour cent 
de la population suisse. Ce moratoire s'applique uni quement à la culture d'organismes génétiquement 
modifiés et à l'importation de bé tail génétiquement modifié, mais pas à l'importation de produits 
alimentaires ni à la recherche. Avant que ce morato ire n'entre en vigueur, il n'y a pas eu de demande 
pour cultiver en Suisse des produits OGMs.  Pour  ce qui est des OGMs destinés à la nourriture 
humaine, la dernière licence d' importation demandée remonte à 2000. Etant donné que les demandes 
sont si rares, rien ne peut être dit quant à la durée du processus d'approbation de ces demandes. Les 
importateurs ne perçoivent que peu ou pas de demandes pour des pr oduits alimentaires génétiquement 
modifiés. Quant aux fourrages génétiquement modifi és, la licence automatique d'importation pour le 
maïs et le soya est associé au régime d'importa tion tel qu'appliqué par l'Union européenne. Les 
importations de fourrages généti quement modifiés représentent, quant à elles 0.01 pour cent de 
l'ensemble des importations de fourrages. 
Le Canada a également soulevé la question de l'é tiquetage des produits OGM, des poulets et des œufs 
produits en batterie et de la compatibilité de ces mesures avec les règles de l'OMC, notamment sous 
l'angle des entraves au commerce. Permettez-moi tout d'abord de préciser que si la production de 
poulets et d'œufs en batterie est interdite en Suisse , l'importation en Suisse de  tels produits, elle, ne 
l'est pas. La situation est donc analogue au tr aitement des produits alimentaires ou aux fourrages 
génétiquement modifiés. Permettez-moi, Monsieur le Président, une parenthèse. La Suisse est probablement l'un des rares pays où il a été nécessaire d'expliquer les mécanismes de l'OMC à l'ensemble des citoyens. Nous l'avons fait avec succès en 1993-95. Nous avons pu ainsi éviter un 
referendum. Cela impose certaines contraintes en ma tière de politique commerciale. La contrepartie WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 140  
 
  est qu'une fois adoptée, celle-ci bénéficie aussi d' un large soutien populaire. Je referme la parenthèse. 
L'interdiction de la production en Suisse d'animau x en batterie résulte donc spécifiquement de la 
volonté du peuple suisse de traiter les animaux de ma nière respectueuse de leur bien-être. En effet, 
elle reflète le mandat constitutionnel qu'il a donné da ns le cadre de l'Article 104 de notre Constitution 
qui fixe les fondements de la multif onctionnalité de notre agriculture et qui incluent entre autres le fait 
que les méthodes de production agricoles doivent être  durables et, entre autres, respectueuses du    
bien-être et de la santé des animaux. D'autres Membres de l'OMC n'ont apparemment pas de telles 
contraintes. Or les méthodes de production durables et respectueuses du bien-être des animaux qui sont imposées aux producteurs suis ses sont plus coûteuses que celle s permettant la production en 
batterie. J'ajouterai que le public suisse, qui est ég alement le souverain dans ce pays, considère que le 
consommateur a le droit de pouvoir distinguer ces méthodes de production afin de pouvoir effectuer 
un choix en tenant compte de son éthique personne lle et en toute connaissance de cause. Dès lors, 
pour que les producteurs locaux ne soient pas discr iminés par rapport à des produits ne garantissent 
pas des standards minimaux similaires dans ce domaine, un étiquetage devient nécessaire. 
L'Argentine et la Colombie ont soulevé la question de l'examen des subventions fédérales ainsi que de 
leur répartition entre les niveaux fédéral et s ub-fédéraux. L'examen de 2008 a porté sur environ 
230 subventions sur un total d'environ 360 et dém ontré qu'une action était nécessaire dans 70 cas 
environ. Les recommandations qui sont sorties de ce t examen ont montré, d'une part, la nécessité de 
réformes structurelles dans divers secteurs d'activité.  D'autre part, dans 30 cas, il a été décidé de 
réduire ou de diminuer ces subventi ons. Pour un tiers, ces mesures sont  déjà entrées en vigueur. Pour 
ce qui est de la répartition entre le s trois niveaux de l'Etat, il convien t tout d'abord de préciser que les 
parts les plus importantes du gâ teau des subventions vont aux domaines ou activités suivantes: 
sécurité sociale, éducation, transports et, enfin, économie générale, dont l'agriculture. Les subventions 
agricoles, qui sont versées au niveau fédéral seulement, représentent 0.7 pour cent du PIB ou 7.3 pour 
cent du total des subventions en Suisse. Cependant , les tâches spécifiques et responsabilités sont 
identifiées clairement et les subventions ne sont attribuées chacune qu'à un seul niveau de 
gouvernement. Ce sont les parlements des nive aux fédéral, cantonal et communal qui sont 
responsables pour déterminer le niveau des subv entions. Au niveau cantonal et communal, les 
subventions sont examinées dans le processus de pl anification financière et budgétaire annuel. De 
plus, au niveau fédéral, la loi suisse sur les s ubventions exige un examen périodique de toutes les 
subventions tous les six ans, comme ce fut le cas en 2008. 
L'Argentine, l'Australie, le Canada, le Chili, les Et ats-Unis et le présentateur ont soulevé la question 
du contenu et de l'impact des amendements à la loi sur les cartels et autres restrictions à la 
concurrence qui sont entrés vigueur en 2005 ainsi que de la révision de la loi sur le marché intérieur 
de 2006. Pour ce qui est de la loi sur les cartels , les principales innovations sont l'introduction de 
sanctions directes pour les cartels dit "durs" et  l'abus de position dominante, l'introduction d'un 
programme de clémence, la présomption nouvelle que certains types d'accords verticaux sur les prix et 
les marchés empêchent une concurrence efficace, l'introduction de nouvelles méthodes 
d'investigation, surtout en matière de recherche et  de saisie d'évidences ainsi que l'obligation pour les 
membres de la Commission des cartels de divulg uer leurs intérêts. Ces amendements rapprochent 
substantiellement la loi suisse sur la concurre nce des meilleures pratiques internationales. Par 
exemple, il y a déjà eu un certain nombre de demand es de clémence de la part d'entreprises ainsi que 
des raids à l'aube sur des entrepri ses par les autorités de la concurrence afin de détecter des cartels 
"durs". Il faut être conscient que les réformes ains i introduites étaient, d'un point de vue systémique, 
nouvelles pour la Suisse. C'est pourquoi les années qui ont immédiatement suivi cette réforme ont été 
cruciales pour déterminer les possibilités effectives et les limites de la nouvelle loi. Ce processus est 
toujours en cours et il est donc encore trop tôt pour  procéder à une évaluati on économique générale de 
l'impact de cette réforme. Une évaluation de l'impact  de la loi est cependant en cours de préparation. 
Les résultats de cette évaluation ainsi que d es recommandations pour des réformes futures seront 
publiés au printemps de 2009.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 141 
 
 
  Pour ce qui est de la réforme de la loi sur le marché intérieur, elle vise à éliminer les restrictions en 
matière d'accès au marché introduites par les cant ons et communes. Introduite en 1995, elle a été 
révisée en 2006 suite à une évaluation des obstacles à l'accès au marché qui persistaient et à une 
interprétation des décisions de justice intervenues jusqu'alors. La loi ame ndée de 2006 élimine des 
obstacles cantonaux et communaux additionnels à l'ac cès au marché, assure que les procédures de 
reconnaissance des certificats de qualification pour certaines professions couvertes par l'accord avec 
l'Union européenne sur la libre circulation des personnes suivent les règles agréées avec l'Union 
européenne. Enfin, elle renforce le rôle de supervis ion de la Commission de la  concurrence. La Suisse 
considère que la réduction des barrières aux écha nges et l'ouverture des marchés intérieurs qui 
résultent de ces amendements constituent l'un de s moyens les plus effi caces pour accroître la 
concurrence et réduire le niveau général des prix qui demeure toujours élevé en Suisse en 
comparaison de la moyenne des pays de l'OCDE.   
En matière de marchés publics, la Colombie et  le Japon se sont notamment enquis du statut de 
Swisscom. Selon l'annexe 3 de l'Appendice 1 des enga gements de la Suisse au titre de l'accord sur les 
marchés publics de l'OMC (AMP), Swisscom n'a pas été couvert sous l'AMP. Pour peu de temps, 
Swisscom a été couvert dans un contexte bilatéral et national. Peu après que l'Union européenne et la 
Suisse aient signé en 1996 l'Accord bilatéral sur cer tains aspects relatifs aux marchés publics, les deux 
parties se sont mises d'accord pour exclure leur s activités respectives de télécommunication de la 
couverture de l'accord. Les parties concernées s ont en effet parvenues à la conclusion que leurs 
entreprises de télécommunication opéraient dans un c ontexte libéralisé et que les conditions de la 
concurrence étaient dès lors réalisées. Jusqu'à ce  que ces décisions soient prises, Swisscom a bien 
entendu été énumérée dans l'ordonnance qu'a me ntionnée par Japon. Cepe ndant, cette ordonnance 
n'est pas seulement un miroir reflétant l'ensemble des engagements de la Suisse sous l'AMP.  Par 
ailleurs, étant donné que Swisscom n'était pas été co uvert sous l'AMP, il n'y avait aucune raison de 
notifier le résultat du processus de la privatisation de Swisscom à l'OMC.  
Diverses questions de nature plutôt technique ont ét é soulevées par le Brésil, le Canada, la Colombie, 
les Etats-Unis et le Japon en matière de propriété  intellectuelle. Nous y avons répondu par écrit. Je me 
limiterai dès lors à un commentaire d'ordre gé néral pour rappeler que la Suisse attribue une 
importance primordiale à la protec tion de la propriété intellectuelle . Une telle protection est en effet 
incontournable  afin de stimuler constamme nt les efforts de recherch e, de développement et 
d'innovation des entreprises. Seule une protecti on solide, insérée dans un cadre international 
rigoureux, permet de justifier des coûts de r echerche énormes dans plusieurs secteurs dédiés 
notamment aux sciences de la vie. Pour la Suisse,  comme pour plus d'une centaine de Membres de 
l'OMC, comme le Nigérian par exemple, la pr otection des indications géographiques est aussi 
indispensable tant pour les produits agricoles que pour ceux manufacturés. Il en résulte que la reconnaissance et le respect international des indi cations géographiques constituent une priorité pour 
la Suisse afin d'inciter les producteurs à se concentr er sur la production de spécialités. Par ailleurs, 
j'ajouterai qu'en matière de propriété intellectue lle, la Suisse assure une protection dépassant les 
standards minimaux prévus dans l'Accord sur l es ADPIC. Comme nous l'avons exposé dans le rapport 
du Gouvernement, trois projets de révision ont abouti dernièrement, à savoir la révision de la loi sur 
les brevets, de celle sur les droits d'auteur et de  celle sur la protection des variétés végétales. Les 
autorités suisses et les milieux économiques concern és ont par ailleurs mis sur pied une plate-forme 
de lutte contre la contrefaçon et la piraterie dont le but est d'inform er sur les risques et conséquences 
de ces pratiques abusives et de renforcer la coordi nation dans ce domaine entre les secteurs public et 
privé. Par ailleurs, les dispositions concernant la lutte contre la contrefaçon et la piraterie – en 
particulier les mesures à la frontière – ont été développées et introduites dans la législation des 
principaux droits de propriété intellectuelle (brevets , droit d'auteur, marques et designs). Sur le plan 
multilatéral aussi, la Suisse entend continuer à s' engager en faveur d'un renforcement des règles 
régissant la protection de la  propriété intellectuelle.  
FIN DE LA SECONDE INTERVENTION WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 142  
 
  Politiques  sectorielles
 
Agriculture 
Permettez-moi, maintenant, Monsieur le Président, d'aborder les politiques sectorielles de la Suisse. 
De nombreuses questions nous ont été adressées en  relation avec l'agriculture. Je me limiterai à 
répondre ici essentiellement à celles de nature plus pol itique et générale. La Suisse a en effet répondu 
en détail par écrit aux autres questions plus techniques.  
Malgré les importantes réformes que nous avons en treprises, y compris dans des secteurs parmi les 
plus protégés de notre économie intérieure et dont j'ai déjà parlé lundi, les exportateurs agricoles ont –et je les comprends – marqué le contrepoint en suggérant que les efforts déployés par la Suisse en 
matière de réforme agricole demeuraient encore fort  modestes à leurs yeux. J'y reviendrai, mais je 
poserai d'abord trois questions: en Suisse, la vale ur de la production du secteur agricole a diminué de 
29 pour cent entre 1990 et 2006 tandis que la hausse des prix à la consommation se montait à 14 pour 
cent durant cette même période. Par ailleurs, le nom bre d'exploitations a baissé de 32 pour cent (soit 
une baisse de plus de 30'000 exploita tions) et l'emploi total dans le secteur agricole de 30 pour cent 
(soit près de 77'000 personnes). Dans  quel pays, un tel ajustement enduré par les professionnels d'un 
seul secteur n'aurait-il pas conduit à un blocage du pro cessus de réforme ? Cela n'a pas été le cas de la 
Suisse. Dans quel pays, les forces réformatrices n'auraient-elles pas été lassées par les critiques 
persistantes formulées par certains de leurs parten aires commerciaux, quels que soient les efforts 
consentis ? Ce risque de lassitude existe réelle ment en Suisse. L'Union suisse des paysans, par 
exemple, a déjà adhéré à la coalition des organisa tions critiques à l'égard de l'OMC. Dans un pays où 
tout changement de législation peut impliquer une votation populaire, ce phénomène de lassitude ne 
saurait être sous-estimé! Dans quel pays faut-il expliquer les mécanismes de l'OMC à l'ensemble des 
citoyens ? C'est encore en Suisse. Si nous avons pu éviter ainsi un refere ndum après l'Uruguay Round, 
ce ne sera pas nécessairement le cas après la conclusion du Cycle de Doha. Cela signifie que les réformes que nous introduisons doivent être compri ses par le public, donc progressives et socialement 
supportables. 
Nombre d'intervenants, dont l'Argentine, les Etats- Unis et la Nouvelle-Zélande, nous ont demandé en 
particulier si la Suisse prenait aussi en considéra tion les avantages d'une plus  grande libéralisation du 
secteur de l'agriculture pour les consommateurs, les transformateurs alimentaires et les exportateurs en 
termes d'opportunités accrues d'exportation. Je répondr ai ceci: pour les raisons que je viens d'évoquer 
la Suisse ne peut que libéraliser par étapes son secteur agricole. La Politique agricole 2011 (PA 2011) 
est une nouvelle initiative de politique agricole su ccédant à la Politique agricole 2007. Elle a été 
adoptée par le Parlement et est déjà en vigueur au moment où nous parlons. PA 2011 prévoit que la 
Suisse baissera des tarifs sur les céréales et les f ourrages, poursuivra le découplage du soutien interne 
et éliminera toutes les subventions à l'exportation des produits agricole de base.  
La Suisse est aussi un participant actif dans les né gociations du Cycle de Doha. Elle sera l'un des plus 
importants contributeurs nets à ce round, en baissant considérablement le niveau de sa protection à la 
frontière et en prenant des engagements conséquents en matière de réduction du soutien interne. En ce 
qui concerne la concurrence à l'exportation,la Suisse a déjà commencé à mettre  en vigueur les 
engagements pris à Hong Kong en 2005: toutes les subventions à l'exportation sur les produits 
agricoles de base auront disparu en 2010. En ce qui  concerne le mécanisme de compensation des prix 
pour les produits agricoles transformés, la Suisse en fera de même dans la mise en œuvre des résultats 
du Cycle de Doha.  Par ailleurs, dans le cadre de ses négociations avec les pays-tiers, la Suisse prend 
également des engagements contribuant à la révi sion du système de compensation des prix. Les 
réductions tarifaires prévues qui sont conte nues dans les propositions de modalités agricoles 
actuellement sur la table impliquent de véritables coupes dans nos tarifs douaniers et auront un effet 
direct sur le revenu des paysans. La mise en oeuvr e du Cycle de Doha aura pour effet de fortement 
libéraliser notre secteur agricole. Fi nalement, comme je l'ai déjà menti onné lundi, la Suisse et l'Union  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 143 
 
 
  européenne ont lancé des négociations pour un accord  de libre-échange dans le secteur agricole. Le 
but de ces négociations est d'éliminer l'ensemble des droits de douane et des contingents ainsi que les 
obstacles non tarifaires entre les deux entités. Avec un peu plus de 70% des importations suisses en provenance de l'Union européenne, cet accord aura  un impact majeur sur nos paysans. Cet accord 
permettra d'accroître substantiellement la compétitiv ité de l'agriculture suisse et donnera aussi à nos 
producteurs l'accès à un marché de près de 500 millions de consommateurs.  
Le Brésil, le Chili et la Nouvelle-Zélande nous ont également demandé comment nous réconcilions 
les trois objectifs de notre politique extérieure avec  les politiques et mesures en place dans le domaine 
agricole. De la même manière que les considérati ons autres que d'ordre commercial sont mises en 
évidence dans le préambule de l'Accord sur l'agricu lture de l'OMC, la politique commerciale agricole 
de la Suisse est basée sur le principe de la multif onctionnalité. Comme je l'ai déjà mentionné tout à 
l'heure, ce concept est reproduit dans  l'Article 104 de la C onstitution fédérale et ex ige que l'agriculture 
suisse contribue à la sécurité alimentaire de la population ainsi qu'à d'autres objectifs tels que la 
conservation des ressources naturelles. Tout en appliquant ce principe, nous entendons améliorer 
l'accès aux marchés étrangers, améliorer la comp étitivité en rendant les produits suisses plus 
compétitifs et intégrer le nombre le plus large po ssible de pays dans l'économie globale. Le premier 
de ces objectifs est notamment visé par la négocia tion d'un accord de libre- échange agricole avec 
l'Union européenne qui est notre premier part enaire commercial y compris dans les échanges 
agricoles. Les trois principales initiatives de réfo rmes agricoles qui se succèdent depuis 1999, à savoir 
PA 2003, PA 2007 et PA 2 011 ont renforcé l'engageme nt envers la multifoncti onnalité tout en rendant 
notre agriculture plus compétitive. La Suisse poursuit par ailleurs aussi la libéralisation graduelle de 
son secteur agricole en participant activement aux né gociations de l'OMC. Enfin, la Suisse applique 
un système de préférences généralisées généreux qui n'inclut pas seulement d'importantes concessions 
agricoles en faveur des PMA (le "duty-free quota-fr ee" pour l'ensemble des lignes tarifaires) mais 
aussi pour d'autres pays en développement.  
Electricité 
Outre le secteur agricole, de nombreuses questi ons nous ont été adressées en relation avec les 
industries de réseau, la construction et les services. Pour ce qui est d'abord de l'électricité et du gaz, l'Argentine, l'Australie, le Pakistan et le Taipei chinois nous a en particulier demandé si ces industries 
demeureront propriété d'Etat ou si elles seront privati sées dans le futur. Selon les termes de la loi sur 
l'approvisionnement en électricité, le système de  transmission d'électricité à haut voltage doit 
demeurer en mains publiques sous contrôle suisse.  La Suisse n'a pas de plans nationaux visant à 
privatiser les autres entreprises actives dans la production et la distribution d'électricité et de gaz qui 
sont en mains publiques. Comme ces entreprises sont  généralement la propriété d'entités publiques 
sub-fédérales, c'est à ces dernières de décider si  ces entreprises seront privatisées ou non. Pour ce qui 
est de la question de la formation des prix du g az, ces derniers sont établis sur la base des coûts 
reflétant l'évolution des contrats d'importation co rrespondants. L'autorité de surveillance des prix 
dispose de l'autorité générale de surveiller les prix fixés par les entités publiques (par exemple les 
tarifs du gaz) sauf lorsqu'il existe une législati on spécifique comme c'est le cas pour la loi sur 
l'approvisionnement en électricité qui attribue cette  compétence à d'autres ent ités. Actuellement, le 
principal problème que l'on rencontre en matière de  fixation des prix est lorsque les propriétaires 
d'infrastructure réévaluent leurs actifs afin qu' ils restent en rapport avec les futurs coûts de 
remplacement. L'autorité de surveillance des prix a cependant pour pratique normale d'empêcher ce 
type de réévaluation d'actifs qui obligerait autrem ent les consommateurs à payer deux fois pour la 
même infrastructure.  
Construction 
Diverses questions de la Commission de Communau tés européennes, de la Corée, de l'Inde, du 
Mexique et du présentateur nous sont également parv enues en matière de restrictions à concurrence WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 144  
 
  dans le secteur de la construction. Il est correct de  dire qu'il existait quatre types de restrictions à la 
concurrence dans le secteur de la  construction. D'abord, les standa rds et réglementations techniques 
ont traditionnellement été particulièrement sévères et spécifiques à la Suisse; deuxièmement, diverses 
professions dans ce secteur continuent d'être réglem entées au niveau cantonal; troisièmement, par le 
passé, il y a eu un nombre relativement important d'arrangements restrictifs et d'autres pratiques anti-
concurrentielles parmi les fournisseurs qui ont lim ité l'entrée de nouveaux fournisseurs, y compris 
étrangers. Enfin, les plafonds en ma tière de permis de tr avail pour des employés étrangers entravent la 
compétitivité de ce secteur intensif en main-d'œuvre.  
La Suisse s'est attaquée à tous ces points au cours des quatre dernières années. Ainsi, ce printemps, 
l'accord avec l'Union européenne sur les obstacl es techniques au commerce a été modifié au moyen 
d'une nouvelle annexe qui reconna ît l'équivalence des prescriptions relatives aux produits de la 
construction. En même temps, l'alignement d es normes techniques (privées) avec les standards 
internationaux a progressé. Enfin, un accord intercan tonal sur les standards de construction est entré 
en vigueur, de sorte que l'obstacle au commerce que les réglementations techniques constituait a 
désormais largement été démantelé. Deuxièmement, la  révision de la loi sur le marché intérieur est 
entrée en vigueur. Elle garantit non seulement la liber té de fournir des services à travers les frontières 
cantonales mais aussi que l'accès au marché ga gné dans un canton ne sera pas perdu lorsqu'une 
entreprise déplace son siège d'un canton à un autre. Tr oisièmement, comme je l'ai déjà mentionné, la 
législation sur la concurrence a été révisée et est  entrée définitivement en vigueur en 2005. Depuis 
lors, des cas de collusion de soumissionnaires (" bid rigging") dans des projets de construction 
publique ont été détectés. De même, deux cartels da ns la construction routiè re ont été démantelés. 
Enfin, la loi sur les étrangers a été révisée. Une fois qu'un étranger a été admis par un canton sur son 
territoire pour une période supérieu re à une année, il bénéficie d'un accès sans restriction à l'ensemble 
du marché du travail de la Suisse. Ceci s'ajout e à la libre circulation des personnes agréée avec 
l'Union européenne et qui entre progressi vement en vigueur depuis juin 2002.  
Services 
J'en viens maintenant aux services. Permettez-moi d'abord quelques remarques générales. Pour la 
Suisse, ce secteur est un moteur central de l'économie. Il contribue à raison de pl us de 70% à la valeur 
ajoutée brute. Trois entreprises sur quatre sont actives  dans ce secteur, sept actifs sur dix travaillent 
dans le secteur. Le marché suisse des services est l'un des plus ouverts au monde. Le niveau de 
réglementation est peut-être relativement élevé dans certains secteurs, il n'en demeure pas moins que la réglementation des services est très peu discriminatoire en Suisse et ne contient que très peu de 
restrictions à l'accès au marché.  
Les chiffres sont très clairs: La Suisse atteste d'une  très haute densité d'entreprises étrangères sises en 
Suisse et plus de 25% des travailleurs résident s sont des étrangers. L'économie suisse est donc 
largement dépendant du commerce des services dans l'ensemble des quatre modes. Par conséquent, 
c'est pour nous une priorité de la  politique économique extérieure de la Suisse que de contribuer à la 
facilitation du commerce des services en créant un système de commerce des services multilatéral 
ouvert, transparent, simple et sûr.  
Divers Membres nous ont posé des questions spécifiqu es en matière de services. Je terminerai mon 
exposé en relevant deux aspects. D'une part, la Cor ée et le Pérou ont soulevé la question du monopole 
des établissements cantonaux d'assu rance incendie (ECA). Ce monopole doit être vu d'abord comme 
un reliquat historique. Ces monopoles ont été créés à une époque où, lorsque les maisons dans les 
villages étaient très serrées et qu'une maison prena it feu, ce feu risquait de se propager à tout le 
village, empêchant une diversification des risques. Les assurances privées, ne voulaient dès lors pas 
assurer ce risque à des taux raisonnables et c'es t ainsi que ces monopoles ont été créés. 19 monopoles 
cantonaux ont survécu. Dans les autres cantons, ils on t été remplacés par des assureurs privés. Dans le 
cas d'un monopole, la loi prévoit que tous les bâtime nts de construction durable doivent être assurés.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 145 
 
 
  Il est intéressant de constater que, dans la co mparaison, les monopoles s'en sortent mieux que les 
assureurs privés et peuvent par conséquent offrir d es primes plus favorables aux clients. En effet, 
parce que la couverture géographique est clairement dé terminée et attribuée à une seule entreprise, les 
ECA sont en fait des entreprises verticalement intégrées qui sont actives à la fois dans l'assurance et la 
prévention. L'institution qui retire un bénéfice maté riel direct d'une meilleure prévention est aussi 
chargée de son organisation et de son financemen t. Les ECA sont actifs dans un large éventail 
d'activités de prévention: ils interviennent dans l'aménagement du territoire pour empêcher que des 
bâtiments soient construits dans des zones s oumises à un danger accru d'éléments naturels; ils 
collaborent à l'élaboration des normes de constructi on; et finalement ils sont très actifs dans la 
formation, la coordination et le financement des pompiers. Le taux de sinistre, par conséquent, est 
sensiblement plus faible dans les cantons avec un monopole, ce qui réduit d'autant les coûts des ECA. 
De fait, les 19 établissements cantonaux d'assuranc e incendie dépensent en moyenne cinq fois moins 
pour ces deux postes que les assureurs privés. 
Enfin, en réponse aux questions posées par le Japon,  la Colombie et le Pérou concernant le 
subventionnement croisé dans le domaine des servi ces de télécommunications, il convient de relever 
que la Suisse dispose d'un cadre réglementaire adéquat pour empêcher les entreprises dominantes de 
s'engager dans de telles pratiques anticoncurrentie lles. Le financement croisé pour les services de 
télécommunications n'est certes pas explicitement interdit par la loi sur les télécommunications. 
Cependant, en appliquant les dispositio ns pertinentes de la loi sur les cartels et de la législation sur les 
télécommunications, la Suisse peut appliquer les mesures appropriées et en conformité avec ses engagements pour empêcher les entr eprises dominantes d'avoir recour s de manière anticoncurrentielle 
au subventionnement croisé. 
No quisiera terminar esta reunion (mi presentacion) sin agradecer a todos los participantes por el 
interes demostrado. Tambien espero sinceramente que nuestras respuestas les hayan satisfecho y que hayan contribuido positivamente al desarollo de esta reunion. 
  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 147 
 
 
  REPLY PROVIDED BY SWITZERLAND TO FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS 
(UNITED STATES):  
Regarding the moratorium on cultivation of GMO cr ops, and in light of Switzerland's obligations 
under the WTO SPS Agreement, the United States woul d be interested in Switzerland's scientific 
basis for the ban. Regarding the issue of author ization for imports, the answer from Switzerland 
implies that the length of time for the approval of bi otech products for food use is irrelevant since 
importers are requesting few if any import li censes to import this type of product.  
Question:   Could Switzerland please clarify the connecti on between approvals of biotech events and 
"import licenses?" Is that considered to be the same  thing? What is meant by Switzerland's statement 
that the import license for maize and soya is "coupled to the import regime as applied by the EC?"   
According to information published by the Swiss Fe deral Office for Public Health, the last approval 
of a biotech product for importation indeed took pl ace in 2000. However, there have been 11 import 
applications since 2000 that are still "under review." In  addition, there are 2 import applications dating 
from before 2000 that are still under review. The mo st recent import applications date from 2007.  
Question:   As such, could Switzerland please provide furth er details on the duration of the approval 
process?  
Answer:   
The moratorium of 5 years is the result of a pub lic vote and bases therefore on a political decision 
of the Swiss people.  
Products containing or derived from biotech cr ops can be put on the Swiss market when the 
corresponding biotech crop is authorized. Import licenses are not necessary. The goal of Swiss 
retailers (food and feed) is not to put biotech products on the home market. Biotech crops for all 
uses in the food or feed industry have to be authorized. For feed use there is simplified 
authorization procedure for defined material of so ybean and corn which is not able to multiply in 
nature. Soybean meal, soybean extr action meal, corn gluten feed and meal as well as corn spindle 
meal are authorized for Switzerland at the same ti me the European Union grants the biotech crop. 
The documents of a biotech crop are volumino us and the legal framework as well as the 
authorization procedure was adopted since 2000. So far no biotech crop was granted for all uses in 
the food and feed industry under the adopted authoriz ation procedure. As for the duration of the 
authorization procedure, there are no legally fixed time limits. Switzerland is aware of the situation 
concerning the number of pending proceedings  and presently reviewing the authorization 
procedure. Following the analysis of the presen t market situation, the question of low level 
presence of unauthorized GMOs in food is addressed w ith high priority in order to prevent barriers 
import problems. unquote I would appreciate if yo u could transmit it to the United States and the 
other WTO Members in the manner you deem appropriate.   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 149 
 
 
  REPLIES PROVIDED BY LIECHTENSTEIN 
General introductory remarks With regard to Liechtenstein, some countries ha ve raised questions which concern issues covered 
by the customs union treaty, the patent treaty and other agreements (for example in field of the agriculture policy) between Switzerland and Liechtenstein. In all these cases Liechtenstein would 
like to refer to the Swiss answers which are also valid for Liechtens tein. Liechtenstein will only list 
those questions and answers that are Liechtenstein specific.  
AUSTRALIA  
(5) SERVICES (ii) Financial Services 
1. The Secretariat report notes the relationship of bank secrecy to tax evasion and tax fraud in both 
Switzerland and Liechtenstein (WT/TPR/S/208, pa ge 110-112, paras 81-86 [Switzerland] pages 
113-116, paras 93-103 [Liechtenstein]).  Bank secr ecy laws can distort investment flows and 
undermine the fairness, neutrality and integrity of  tax systems.  Liechtenstein remains on the 
OECD's list of uncooperative tax havens and Switzerland has not fully adopted OECD standards 
of transparency and information exchange for tax purposes. However, recent events involving 
certain European banks have refocused interna tional attention on the re lationship between bank 
secrecy regimes and tax avoidance and evasion. 
 We would appreciate advice of transparency measures implemented by Switzerland and 
Liechtenstein since the last Trade Policy Review in 2004 regarding bank secrecy. 
 We seek advice as to whether Switzerland and Li echtenstein will reconsider their positions 
and lift bank secrecy for all tax purposes? 
Answer: 
On 3 December 2008 the conference of the Unite d Nations in Doha adopted by consensus an 
outcome document which states in its chapter on foreign direct investment: "It is important to promote good tax practices and avoid inappropriate ones." Good tax practices entail a whole set of 
measures, such as transparency of public financia l management and also an enhanced quality of 
public expenditure.  
With regard to the transparency measures referred to in the first question, the following can be 
said: 
1) In 2005 Liechtenstein incorporated the EU Sa vings Tax Directive into its domestic law. Since 
then Liechtenstein has been levying a withholding tax on interest income and transferring a significant share thereof to the European domiciles of Liechtenstein bank clients. Within the scope of the Agreement, Liechtenstein is required to gran t administrative assistance upon request in case 
of tax fraud and similar offences. 
Since 2007 serious cases of value added tax fraud and certain qualified customs offences are 
subject to legal assistance under the Liechtenstein Mutual Legal Assistance Act. 
On 28 February Liechtenstein signed the Schengen-Dublin Protocols. 
In addition to stronger cross-border police, justic e cooperation and travel easements, Schengen 
association will also result in a significant expansi on of information exchange in tax matters for WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 150  
 
  Liechtenstein. On the basis of the Schengen rules, Liechtenstein will provide mutual legal 
assistance in cases of tax fraud. Liechtenste in has taken the necessary measures for speedy 
ratification and entry into force of the Schengen Agreement. 
Under the provisions of the Tax Information Ex change Agreement (TIEA) signed with the United 
States on 8 December 2008, Liechtenstein grants adm inistrative assistance in fraudulent cases of 
tax evasion under US Law. Information exchange in  tax matters will take place upon request, at 
both the level of mutual legal assistance and admin istrative assistance. Such requests must comply 
with a series of conditions and must be individualized. 
Furthermore Liechtenstein is negotiating an Anti-Fraud Agreement with the European Union and 
its members States: 
The Agreement strengthens information exchange in  the case of tax offences, with respect to both 
indirect and direct taxation. Under this agreement,  Liechtenstein will implement European Union 
standards also with respect to information exchan ge in tax matters. Furthermore, the Government 
of Liechtenstein has expressed its willingness to di scuss additional steps in the framework of double 
taxation agreements to be concluded with interested parties on a bilateral basis. In this context 
Liechtenstein will insist on a reasonable balancing of interests within the framework of 
international cooperation in tax matters that also  encompasses the avoidance of double taxation, 
taking into account the needs of Liechtenstein's export industry in the field of double taxation.  
2) Liechtenstein does not intend to lift bank secrecy for all tax purposes. Bank secrecy continues to 
be an important aspect of the Liechtenstein underst anding of the legitimate private sphere of each 
citizen and the necessary limits of State cont rol. However bank secrecy does not offer protection 
from prosecution for criminal acts and is lifted in criminal cases. Banking secrecy is lifted by a 
court order or an order issued by an investiga ting judge in accordance with the rule of law. 
BRAZIL  
IV. Trade Policies by Sector 
(3) Energy 
(ii) Oil products 
 Considering that in Switzerland and Liechtens tein bio-fuels fulfilling certain ecological and 
social conditions have been partially or fully exem pt from the mineral oil tax since July 2008, is it 
possible to elaborate on those conditions and on the certification process and on their compatibility 
with WTO rules? Could we have in formation concerning the treatment of the Brazilian ethanol in this 
respect? 
Answer:  
As Switzerland and Liechtenstein form a common economic area the mineral oil tax system of 
Switzerland is also applied in Liechtenstein.  Th erefore, Liechtenstein would like to refer to the 
Swiss answer to this question.  
CANADA  
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (4)
 Measures Affecting Production And 
Trade; (vi) Intellectual Property Rights: paragraph 168, page 84: 
The Report by the Secretariat provides that patentab ility criteria such as novelty and inventive step are 
not examined by the Swiss Federal Institute of Inte llectual Property, but that they are requirements in 
all technical fields and are legally contestable.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
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  4. Canada would appreciate Switzerland's and Li echtenstein's views as to whether these 
practices have a significant effect on the work of  patent examiners and courts/boards, and on 
whether these have an appreciable effect on th e quality of patents granted in Switzerland and 
Liechtenstein. 
Answer:  
Due to the patent treaty between Liechtenstein an d Switzerland please see the answer provided by 
Switzerland. 
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (4)  Measures Affecting Production And 
Trade; (vi) Intellectual Property Rights: paragraph 169, page 84: 
The Report by the Secretariat provides that interested  parties may apply for a compulsory licence if an 
inventor has not made sufficient use of the inventi on within the country three years after the patent 
has been granted or four years following the date of the patent application.  
5. Canada would be grateful if Switzerland and Liechtenstein could clarify if there are other 
grounds on which compulsory licences may be granted in Switzerland and Liechtenstein.  
Answer:  
Due to the patent treaty between Liechtenstein an d Switzerland please see the answer provided by 
Switzerland. 
Part III. Trade Policies and Practices by Measure; (2) Measures Directly Affecting Imports; 
(xi) Government Procurement: paragraph 104, page 65: 
The Secretariat Report identifies two laws that apply to public purchases in Liechtenstein.  
30. Please explain how those laws are implemented, and if there are further detailed rules, 
directives, regulations or guidelines that th e procuring authorities follow when conducting 
procurement.  
Answer:  
Liechtenstein implemented the laws, regulations an d administrative provisions necessary to comply 
with the Directive 2004/17/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 March 2004 
coordinating the procurement procedures of entities operating in the water, energy, transport and 
postal services sectors and with Directive 2004/18/ EC of the European Parliament and of the 
Council of 31 March 2004 on the coordination of procedures for the award of public works 
contracts, public supply contracts and public service contracts on 1st October 2008. The procuring 
authorities have to respect  the following  acts, ordinances and announcements:  
– Act of 19 June 1998 on Public Procuremen t (ÖAWG, LGBl. 1998 Nr. 135, amended by 
 LGBl. 2008 Nr. 206); 
– Ordinance of 3rd November 1998 on Public  Procurement (ÖAWV, LGBl. 1998 Nr. 189, 
 amended by LGBl. 2008 Nr. 232); 
– Announcement of 2nd September 2008 on the threshold regarding the award of public 
 contracts (LGBl. 2008 Nr. 234); 
– Act of 21st September 2005 on Public Procur ement in the utilities sector (ÖAWSG, 
 LGBl. 2005 Nr. 220, amended by LGBl. 2008 Nr. 207); 
– Ordinance of 8 November 2005 on Public Procurement in the utilities sector (ÖAWSV, 
 LGBl. 2005 Nr. 223, amended by LGBl. 2008 Nr. 233); WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
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  – Announcement of 2
nd September 2008 on the threshold regarding the award of public 
 contracts in the utilities sector (LGBl. 2008 Nr. 235). 
31. Could Liechtenstein please provide the website links  that allows suppliers to view those rules, 
directives, regulations or guidelines? 
Answer:  
These acts, ordinances and announcements are available on the following website link: 
– Act of 19 June 1998 on Public Procuremen t (ÖAWG, LGBl. 1998 Nr. 135, amended by 
 LGBl. 2008 Nr. 206)   http://www.gesetze.li/Displ ayLGBl.jsp?Jahr=1998&Nr=135; 
– Ordinance of  3rd November 1998 on Public  Procurement (ÖAWV, LGBl. 1998 Nr. 189, 
 amended by LGBl. 2008 Nr. 232)  
 http://www.gesetze.li/Displ ayLGBl.jsp?Jahr=1998&Nr=189; 
– Announcement of 2
nd September 2008 on the threshold regarding the award of public 
 contracts (LGBl. 2008 Nr. 234)   http://www.gesetze.li/Displ ayLGBl.jsp?Jahr=2008&Nr=234; 
– Act of  21
st September 2005 on Public Procurem ent in the utilities sector (ÖAWSG, 
 LGBl. 2005 Nr. 220, amended by LGBl. 2008 Nr. 207)   http://www.gesetze.li/Displ ayLGBl.jsp?Jahr=2005&Nr=220; 
– Ordinance of 8 November 2005 on Public Procurement in the utilities sector (ÖAWSV, 
 LGBl. 2005 Nr. 223, amended by LGBl. 2008 Nr. 233)   http://www.gesetze.li/Displ ayLGBl.jsp?Jahr=2005&Nr=223; 
– Announcement of 2
nd September 2008 on the threshold regarding the award of public 
 contracts in the utilities sector (LGBl. 2008 Nr. 235)   http://www.gesetze.li/DisplayLGBl.jsp?Jahr=2008&Nr=235. 
Part IV. Trade Policies by Sector; (5) Services;  (vii) Professional services: paragraphs 179-182, 
pages 131 and 132: 
Paragraph 179 indicates that Liechtenstein has,  "no restrictions on cross-border supply and 
consumption abroad of legal consultancy services." While paragraphs 180-182 provide information on 
Liechtenstein's requirements for the practice of law and holding the title of lawyer, no further 
information is provided regarding measures regulati ng the provision of legal consultancy services.  
32. Canada would like to know if there are measures that regulate the supply of legal consultancy 
services. If so, can Liechtenstein indicate what those measures? 
Answer:  
The term "no restrictions on cross-border supply and consumption abroad of legal consultancy 
services" refers only to consultancy on home co untry law and international laws (except for 
consulting on Liechtenstein law) as speci fied in Liechtenstein's GATS commitments 
(GATS/SC/83A).  For consultancy services on Liec htenstein law the requirements mentioned in the 
paragraphs 180-182 apply.  
   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 153 
 
 
  CHINA  
Page 13: I. Economic Environment, (3) Developmen ts in Trade and Investment, (i) Trade in Goods 
and service, (b) Liechtenstein, Paragraph 36: 
"No data are available on Liechtenstein's trade in services." 
Question 1: Could the Delegation of Liechtenstein explain the reason behind such 
unavailability? 
Answer:  
The size of the country (160 km2) presents a special difficulty to register import and exports of 
service. All companies and natural persons are living close to the border.  Estimates on trade in 
services would not lead to sufficient accuracy. To set  up a complete inventory count of trade in 
services would be disproportionate.   
COLOMBIA ii) Liechtenstein 
68.  El régimen de inversiones de Liechtenstein se basa en un entorno comercial estable y en un 
atractivo sistema de tributación.  No se aplican r estricciones a la inversión, excepto algunos controles 
sobre la compra de bienes raíces y restricciones apli cadas a cierto número de servicios financieros (a 
saber, administración de activos, consultoría de inversiones, y administraciones fiduciarias) en caso de que sean suministrados profesionalmente por admini stradores fiduciarios o sociedades fiduciarias 
(capítulo IV 5) ii)). 
Colombia se permite solicitar un listado genera l de los incentivos a la inversión que ofrece 
Suiza/Liechtenstein o de las condiciones favorab les a los inversores a los que hace referencia. 
Answer:  
Liechtenstein offers for entrepreneurial activiti es a political stable environment, moderate taxes 
and qualified manpower. The liberal economic poli cy is seen as the best foundation for favourable 
locational conditions.  Actual eco nomic subsidies only exist for agriculture. Other sectors must 
prove themselves in the market. The volume of th e Liechtenstein budget is too small to achieve 
much through financial support. There are therefore no subsidies in any of the possible variations, 
including export subsidies. 
¿Existe en Suiza/Liechtenstein alguna política de G obierno en relación con el manejo, administración 
y defensa frente a demandas en materia de inversión,  presentadas por inversionistas en contra del Estado?  
Answer:   
Liechtenstein does not control investments as such (see pages 36-37 of the report of the secretariat).  
If the conditions for a commercial operation according to the relevant  laws are met, the necessary 
investments can be done. Somebody who wants to be  commercially active in Liechtenstein but does 
not get the commercial licence can lodge a complain in a first step with the Government and in a 
second step with the Administrative Co urt against the Government decision.   
¿Existe algún fondo público cuyo objeto sea el de cubrir los gastos del Estado por concepto de 
condenas y erogaciones ocasionados por demandas co ntra el Estado en materia de Inversión? 
 WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 154  
 
  Answer:  
No. 
¿Qué autoridad está encargada del control de las inversiones extranjeras? ¿Qué ente lleva la 
información estadística sobre IED? ¿Está reglamentado el aporte de información relacionada con IED? 
Answer:  
Liechtenstein does not control foreign direct invest ments. The Liechtenstein system for investments 
is described in the report by the Secretariat on  pages 36-37 (English version). No other conditions 
apply to foreign investments. Since 2006 foreign di rect investments from and in Liechtenstein are 
included in the FDI-statistics of Switzerland.  On the basis of the monetary union treaty 
Liechtenstein and Switzerland have an agreement which FDI information Liechtenstein companies 
have to provide to the Swiss National Bank.   
69. La Ley sobre personas y empresas de 1926 actualizada  reglamenta las personas jurídicas de 
Liechtenstein (el Código PGR), y la complementa la  Ley sobre empresas fiduciarias de 1928.  En el 
marco del Código PGR se puede crear una amplia gama de entidades jurídicas, las más comunes de 
las cuales son la sociedad de responsabilidad limita da por acciones;  la sociedad de responsabilidad 
limitada;  el establecimiento (Anstalt);  la f undación (Stiftung) ;  la empresa fiduciaria;  y el 
fideicomiso.  Otros tipos de entidades incluyen la sociedad en comandita por acciones, la sociedad por 
cuotas de responsabilidad limitada, la asociaci ón, la asociación cooperativa, y la empresa sin 
personalidad jurídica.  Los bancos y las empresas fi nancieras sólo pueden adoptar la forma jurídica de 
una compañía pública de responsabilidad limitada por acciones o una Societas Europae (SE);  la 
Autoridad del Mercado Financiero puede otorgar excepciones.   Todas las formas de personalidad 
jurídica pueden ser también sociedades holding o domiciliarias. 
¿Quién es la Autoridad del Mercado Financie ro, es una entidad pública, privada o mixta? 
Answer: 
The new Financial Market Authority Liechtens tein (FMA) began its operational activities on 
1 January 2005. The FMA is an integrated, indepe ndent financial supervisory authority with its 
own legal personality in the form of an establishment under public law. The new FMA incorporates the three previous supervisory bodies – the Financial Services Authority, the Due 
Diligence Unit, and the Insurance Division of the Office of Economic Affairs. 
The core responsibilities of the FMA are supe rvision and regulation (as mandated by the 
Government) of the Liechtenstein financial mark et. The FMA executes the laws and ordinances 
previously enforced by the Government, the Financ ial Services Authority, the Insurance Division 
of the Office of Economic Affairs (with the exception of the Health Insurance Act and the 
Compulsory Accident Insurance Act), and the Du e Diligence Unit. The FMA is responsible for 
granting, withdrawing, and revoking licen ses for all financial intermediaries. 
The FMA serves to safeguard the stability of the Li echtenstein financial market, the protection of 
clients, the prevention of abuses, and the implem entation of and compliance with recognized 
international standards.  
191. En Liechtenstein, la protección mediante el de recho de autor está garantizada por la Ley sobre 
derecho de autor y derechos cone xos, de 19 de mayo de 1999.  Una ordenanza conexa regula la 
explotación colectiva del derecho de autor y derec hos conexos, así como las medidas relativas a las 
importaciones y exportaciones de productos cuya distri bución en el país infrinja el derecho de autor y 
derechos conexos.   En Liechtens tein, el agotamiento internacional está establecido por ley en el caso 
de los derechos de autor y las topografías conexas.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 155 
 
 
  ¿Qué se entiende por "topografías conexas", en rel ación con el Derecho de Autor1? (numeral 191 del 
documento WT/TPR/S/2008) 
Answer: 
The expression "related topographies" used conc erning explanation of the exhaustion right in 
Liechtenstein in paragraph 191, refers to the Act of 19 May 1999 on the Protection of the 
Topographies of Semiconductor Products. This law is  further explained in paragraph 1999 of the 
report in 199:  In Liechtenstein, topographies a re protected by the 1999 Act on the Protection of 
Topographies of Semi-Conductor Products and its rel ated ordinance.  Protection is granted on the 
condition that the products are the result of the cre ator's own intellectual work and that they are 
not trivial in the semi-conductor industry.  The  owner has an exclusive right to reproduce the 
topography and the right to publish it in any form. The Act also provides exceptions to the 
protection on education and research grounds.  Topography are protected for a maximum of 
15 years;  prolongation is not foreseen. EEA wide exhaustion is set by law for topographies. 
101. La Ley sobre diligencia debida, modificada, y la correspondiente ordenanza son los principales 
instrumentos jurídicos para prevenir y luchar c ontra el blanqueo de dinero y la financiación del 
terrorismo.  La diligencia debida a los clientes cons iste principalmente en la obligación de elaborar y 
mantener un perfil de cada cliente, que incluya info rmación sobre la propiedad efectiva, el origen de 
los fondos y la finalidad de la relación mercantil.  Se gún el FMI, "tanto el blanqueo de dinero como la 
financiación del terrorismo están sancionados penalmen te de manera amplia (aunque no integral), en 
línea con las normas internacionales". 
¿Podría Liechtenstein explicar a qué se refiere cuando afirma que tanto el blanqueo de dinero como la 
financiación del terrorismo están sancionados penalm ente de manera amplia aunque no integral? 
Answer: 
The statement referred to in the question refle cts a quotation from the IMF-assessment of 
Liechtenstein's financial centre which is included  in paragraph 101 of the report. It can therefore 
not be attributed to the Liechtenstein authorities. We would assume that the IMF statement is based 
on the fact that Liechtenstein criminal law does currently not provide for criminal corporate 
liability in the case of money laundering. The  relevant FATF recommendation is worded as 
follows:  
"Criminal liability, and, where that is not possible,  civil or administrative liability, should apply to 
legal persons. This should not preclude parallel crimi nal, civil or administrative proceedings with 
respect to legal persons in countries in which such  forms of liability are available. Legal persons 
should be subject to effective, proportionate an d dissuasive sanctions. Such measures should be 
without prejudice to the criminal liability of individuals." 
It has to be noted that where a violation of th e Due Diligence Act occurs in the course of the 
business of a legal person, the penal provisions appl y to the person who acted on behalf of the legal 
entity. However, based on Article 33 of the Due Dili gence Act, a legal person or trust asset may be 
jointly and severally liable for fines and costs that  have been imposed on that person. This means 
that a legal entity may be held responsible for fi nes and procedural costs imposed on one of its 
organs. 
                                                      
1 Law of 19 May 1999, regarding Copyright and Neighboring Rights (Copyright Law). Liechtenstein 
Law Gazette (Liechtensteinisches Landesgesetzblatt), 1999 Volume, No. 160, published on 23 July 1999. 
"Principle of Exhaustion. 13. If a copy of a work or a reproduction of a computer program or of a 
database has been put into circulation by way of sale with  the consent of the rightholder, the right of distribution 
relating thereto shall thereby be exhausted. This shall not apply with regard to rental right". WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 156  
 
  In view of the ratification of the UN Conven tion against Corruption and in order to implement 
fully other relevant internationa l instruments on money laundering , financing of terrorism, cyber 
crime etc., the Ministry of Justice is currently pr eparing a draft law to introduce criminal liability 
for legal persons. This law is scheduled to  be submitted to Parliament in 2009. 
EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES  
I.  ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT  
(1) M
AJOR FEATURES OF THE  ECONOMY  
WTO Secretariat's Report, page 1, para. 37 
The Secretariat report outlines that as a memb er of EFTA, Switzerland and Liechtenstein are 
negotiating bilateral free trade agreements with Alge ria, India, Peru, and Thailand. Negotiations with 
Colombia and the Gulf Co-operation Council have b een concluded in substance. They also envisage 
entering into bilateral negotiations on free trade ag reements with, inter alia, Albania, Indonesia and 
Serbia and Ukraine. 
4. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein elaborate further on how they intend to encourage 
sustainable development and core labour standa rds in the context of negotiations with third 
countries? 
Answer:  
Liechtenstein shares the view of the Swiss answer to this question. 
(2) M EASURES  AFFECTING PRODUCTION  AND TRADE  
(i) Incentives and other  assistance  
WTO Secretariat's Report, page  70-73, para. 128  
The WTO Secretariat's report states that the tax re gime applicable to foreign companies includes low 
tax rates applicable in Liechtenstein to foreign companies domiciled but not active in the country. 
20. Could Switzerland and Liechtenstein explain how such measure may not divert, or cause to 
re-orient, investments from one country to another? 
Answer:  
Liechtenstein has a special tax regime for foreign companies domiciled but not active in the 
country (e.g. holding companies and captive insu rance companies). Holding companies focus on 
asset management in a broader sense and therefore do not have direct effect on trade. It must be 
noted that specific tax regimes for asset man agement companies are common and accepted in 
Europe (e.g. the Luxemburg Family-operated (Pri vate) Asset Management Company, in French:  
Société de Gestion de Patrimoine Familial – SPF ) and are not regarded in the EEA/EU context as 
having negative effects on trade. 
As regards captives it must be noted that these are a component of the risk management and risk 
financing strategy of their parent companies. In the EU-context it is accepted that captives are a 
special form of insurance companies securing intr a-group risks and are, hence, to be treated 
differently (e.g. Reinsurance Directive 2005/68/EG  and Solvency II-proposal [COM (2008)0119]).   WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 157 
 
 
  In addition. it should be noted that the current Tax Regime, enacted in 1923 and only slightly 
changed since then, is currently under review in order to set up a modern and competitive tax 
regime applicable to natural and legal persons . 
HONG KONG, CHINA  
Insurance services  
(WT/TPR/S/208, P. 116, Para. 106; P. 117, Pa ra. 107; page 119, Paras. 115, 117 & 118) 
5. We note from the Secretariat Report that in Switzerland, composite life, non-life, and non-
insurance-related operations are not allowed; and foreign-owned insurance companies must 
have a representative, which can be either a boa rd member or a director, with residence in 
Switzerland.  Similarly, in Liechtenstein, in surance undertakings engaged in life insurance 
may not be active in any other branches of insu rance other than a few exceptions; a special 
tax is imposed on foreign insurance compani es; and basic health insurance can only be 
provided by authorised non-profit health insu rance companies. We should be grateful for 
clarification on the relationship between these limitations and the existing commitments in 
insurance services. 
Answer: 
According to art. 21 para. 1 of the Insurance Supervision Act (ISA) insurance undertakings providing direct life insurance may not prov ide other classes of insurance, except for 
supplementary insurance for accidental death, si ckness, and disability, and disability insurance. 
This principle is based on art. 18 para. 1 of the consolidated life insurance directive 2002/83/EC (similar provisions are included in the non- life directives). Under the aforementioned directive 
exceptions are possible if the administration of life and non-life insurance is separated. These 
exceptions would mostly apply in Member States of  the European Union with long insurance 
history. Since the first insurance undertaking in Liechtenstein was licensed only in the year 1995, 
Liechtenstein did not apply for those exceptions. 
Foreign insurance companies that have no domicile in Liechtenstein but engage in business in the 
country are subject to the payment of 1 % of the premium revenues from life or annuity insurances, 
and 2% of all other premium revenues. Resident companies are subject to a corporate income tax and net worth tax.  
The reason for basic health insurance to be prov ided only by authorised non-profit health 
insurance companies goes back to the fact that basic  health insurance is compulsory for all persons 
residing and/or working in Liechtenstein. In add ition the insurance companies must offer uniform 
premium for adults, a reduced premium for yo ung people and no premium for children.  
Furthermore the state subsidizes insurance premiu m in various direct and indirect ways. Optional 
insurance may be purchased outside the scope of the compulsory scheme.  As of today four basic 
health insurance companies are active in Liechte nstein (Liechtenstein has 35'500 inhabitants). 
Only one of these four companies has Liechtenste in origin. The other three have foreign mother 
companies.  
JAPAN III. TRADE POLICIES  AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE  
(2) MEASURES AFFECTING IMPORTS (xi) Government procurement (Question 1: page 66, paragraph 109)   
The Secretariat report states that there are no de jure  preferences for local s uppliers in the government 
procurement in Liechtenstein. WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 158  
 
  Please clarify whether or not there are  de facto  preferences as well for local suppliers in the 
government procurement in Liechtenstein. 
Answer:  
There are no de jure nor de facto preferences fo r local suppliers in government procurement in 
Liechtenstein. 
(3) MEASURES AFFECTING PRODUCTION AND TRADE 
(iv) Intellectual property (IP) rights (Question 3: page 88, paragraph 192)  
The Secretariat report explains that since its previous Review, to fulfil its EEA obligations, 
Liechtenstein has transposed several EC Directives  in the area of copyrights. The most important 
amendments concern the adaptation of copyrights a nd related rights to technological developments 
and in regard to resale rights of authors. 
Please elaborate on these amendments regarding resale rights of authors.  
Answer:  
The amendments regarding the resale righ t were introduced due to transposition of 
Directive 2001/84/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the resale right for the 
benefit of the author of an original work of ar t. The provisions regarding the resale right were 
implemented in the Liechtenstein Copyright Act (Art. 15a - 15g).   
The author of an original work of art has the in alienable right (which cannot be waived) to receive 
a share of the sales price obtained for any resale of the work, subsequent to the first transfer of the 
work by the author. This right applies to all acts  of resale where representatives of the art market 
(e.g. auction houses and art galleries) are involved . The resale right does not apply to acts of resale 
where the seller has acquired the work directly fr om the author less than three years before that 
resale and where the resale price does not exceed CHF 15'600. The resale right is applicable for works of art which cost at least CHF 4700. The royalties are set between 0.25% and 4%, depending 
on the amount of the sale price. The royalty may not exceed CHF 19'500. It is payable to the author 
of the work of art and after his/her death to his/her legal successor. 
MEXICO  
5. En el párrafo 134 se menciona que en virtud de  la nueva Ley sobre Comunicaciones, que entró en 
vigor en junio de 2006 en Liechtenstein, se abolió el régimen de licencias.  T odas las actividades en la 
esfera de las comunicaciones electrónicas están libres de licencia, pero deben notificarse a la Oficina 
de Comunicaciones de Liechtenstein, la autoridad reglamentaria nacional. México desearía saber si 
dichas disposiciones se aplican también a empresas extranjeras. 
Answer:  
International mobile companies can operate in Liechtenstein under the conditions of the 
Liechtenstein legislation of communication and th e Liechtenstein legislation on trade. The same 
conditions apply to international and national mobile companies.   
6. En el párrafo 136 se indica que en un estudio sobre el mercado de la telefonía móvil en 
Liechtenstein encargado por la Oficina de Comuni caciones en 2007 se llegó a la conclusión de que la 
competencia era insuficiente, puesto que los obstáculo s a la entrada eran importantes y las empresas 
establecidas tenían un poder de mercado notable, todo lo cual propiciaba que los precios fueran más 
elevados de lo necesario. México desea saber si en  Liechtenstein existen compañías extranjeras que 
presten los servicios de telefonía móvil.  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 159 
 
 
  Answer:  
All four mobile companies operating in Liech tenstein have foreign mother companies.  
CHINESE  TAIPEI  
IV. TRADE POLICIES  BY SECTOR  
(1) INTRODUCTION 
(page 90, paragraph 4)  
Switzerland has adopted a new electricity law, whic h provides for partial liberalization of the Swiss 
electricity market as of 2009, and for full liberalization as of 2014.  
ii) Liechtenstein's electricity market has been  liberalized since 2005. Are there any plans for 
electricity privatization? 
Answer:  
No, there are no such plans. 
(IV)   Electricity 
(page 104, paragraph 57) 
Independent power producers (IPPs) in Liechtenste in may sell electricity to any customer; the 
transmission fee payable to LKW is subject to a pproval by the Energy Commission. Nonetheless, no 
IPPs have yet entered the market.  
Given that the fairness and reasonableness of the trans mission infrastructure is likely to influence 
investors' willingness to invest in an IPP, we woul d appreciate knowing more about the nature of the 
Energy Commission's concerns when determin ing the level of the transmission fee. 
Answer:  
Articles 3 and 4 of the Electricity Market Law list the principles for specifying the transmission fee by the Energy Commission: 
Art. 3:  Specification of Wheeling Charges
  
1. The wheeling charges shall be specified pursuan t to connection point model as defined in 
Art. 18 EMG (Electricity Market Act) and charged to the end consumers.  
2. The following principles apply to specification of the wheeling charges: 
a. they shall have simple structures and reflect the costs caused by the end consumer;  
b. they shall be specified irrespective of the distance between entry and exit point; 
c. the charges shall be uniform for each voltage level and customer group.  
3. The provisions governing composition of the customer group must be specified in the 
Technical Operating Regulations ("TBB").  These provisions must be neither 
discriminatory, nor may they violate tariff so lidarity pursuant to the connection point 
model, nor be counterproductive to the pr inciple of raising grid efficiency.  
 WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
Page 160  
 
  Art. 4:  Allowable Costs 
 
1. Allowable costs are defined as the operating and capital costs of an efficiently and safely 
operated grid as well as duties in the form  of compulsory contributions to energy and 
environmental policy measures. 
2. Allowable operating costs are defined as: 
a. the costs of services which are directly related to operation of the grid;  
b. fees payable to third-parties for easements. 
3. The maximum allowable capital costs are:  
a. the imputed depreciation;  
b. the imputed interest on the assets required  for operation of the grids pursuant to 
 Section 5 a.).  
4. The annual imputed depreciation shall be ca lculated on the basis of the estimated 
replacement value and the anticipated service life. For that purpose, the grid operator shall 
keep fixed-asset accounts which indicate at  least the necessary expenditure required for 
calculation of the imputed depreciation. 
5. Annual interest on the assets required for opera tion of the grids shall be governed as 
follows:  
a. necessary operating assets are subject to  the following maximum levels:  
1. the residual book values of the existing plant remaining at the end of the 
 financial year after depreciation pursuant to the above 4); and  
2. the necessary working capital, up  to a maximum of 6% of annual 
 turnover.  
b. the permissible necessary operating assets shall be liable to interest as follows: 
 30% at the interest rate for borrowed c apital, and 70% at the interest rate for 
 equity capital. The interest rate for bo rrowed capital shall be calculated on the 
 basis of the average return on long-term federal bonds. The interest rate for equity 
 capital shall correspond to a maximum of th e interest rate for borrowed capital plus 
 a risk premium in line with market ci rcumstances; this risk premium shall be 
 specified by the regulatory authority.  
UNITED STATES  
(4) Measures Affecting Production and Trade 
 (iii) Competition policy and regulatory issues 
Pages 76-77, paragraphs 147-148, 150:  The Secretariat's report suggests that limited competition in 
certain sectors of the Swiss market is a concern.  However, legislation on competition was amended in 2004 and 2006, with a resultant increase in enforcemen t activity.  What have the impacts of the laws 
listed in paragraph 148 and the amendments mentione d in 150 been in terms of supporting increased 
competition?  Do Switzerland and Liechte nstein plan any additional action?  WT/TPR/M/208/Add.1 
 Page 161 
 
 
  Answer: 
This question of the United States refers to the Swi ss legislation on competition. The Liechtenstein 
competition system is described in the paragraph s 163-165, pages 81-82. Liechtenstein has no 
additional action planed. 
IV. TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR  
 (1) Introduction 
Page 90, paragraph 2:   The agricultural sector remains highly protected despite its limited economic 
importance in terms of contribution to GDP and empl oyment.  The Secretariat's report states that the 
agriculture sector is characterized by relatively high  levels of state intervention and tariffs, limited 
competition, and export subsidies.  In terms of reform ing this sector to bring it more in line with an 
otherwise market-driven economy, which of these areas are priorities?   
Answer: 
The reform of the Liechtenstein agricultural sector is in line with the Swiss reforms. Therefore Liechtenstein refers to the Swiss answer. 
(2) Agriculture and Related Activities  (ii) Policy objectives and instruments 
Page 97, paragraph 24:
 The OECD notes that production and trade-distorting support have been 
reduced but still account for more than half of agricultural producer support.  Some 75% of this 
support falls in the category of "most distortive."  Do Switzerland and Liechtenstein plan to continue 
reducing support, particularly the trade-distortive s upport?  If so, what is the timeline and final target 
that you hope to reach? 
Answer:  
The support system for the Liechtenstein agricultural sector is the same as the Swiss system. Therefore Liechtenstein refers to the Swiss answer.  
 
__________