RESTRICTED  WORLD TRADE  
ORGANIZATION  S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
22 December 2005 
 
 (05-6253) 
Working Party on GATS Rules Original:   English 
 
  
COMMUNICATION FROM SWITZERLAND 
 
Response to the Questions Relevant to the Information Exchange Required
 
Under the Subsidies Negotiating Mandate  
 
Addendum  
 
 
 The following communication, dated 20 December  2005, from the delegation of Switzerland 
is being circulated to the Members of the Working Party on GATS Rules.  
_____________ S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
I.
 INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................... .......3  
A. Sectors which have not been considered in the answ ers to the questionnaire ............................3  
B. Sectors in which no (major) subsidies are granted: ......... ...........................................................4  
C. Partly not answered questions and answers to questio ns of a general nature .............................4  
II. HORIZONTAL MEASURES.......................................................................................................5  
A. Investment promotion and guarantees  for mountainous regions (including 
implementation measures) ....................................................................................................... ...5 
B. Government aid for economically endangered regions ..............................................................6  
C. INTERREG III................................................................................................................... .........7  
III. SECTORAL MEASURES ............................................................................................................8  
1. Business Services.............................................................................................................. .........8  
A. Research and Development Services ..........................................................................................8  
(a) Contribution to the infrastructure of cancer research in Switzerland .........................................8  
(b) Swiss National Fund ............................................................................................................ .......8  
(c) Swiss Academies for Natural Sciences / Hu manities / Medical Sciences / Technical 
Sciences ....................................................................................................................... ...............9  
(d) Contribution to research on animal diseases.............................................................................10  
2. Communication Services ........................................................................................................1 1 
A. Audiovisual Services ........................................................................................................... .....11  
(a) Public film funding; promotion of film cu lture and formation and further education 
for film professions........................................................................................................... ........11  
(b) Radio and television services.................................................................................................. ..12 
3. Tourism and Travel Related Services ...................................................................................13  
A. “Swiss Tourism” ................................................................................................................ .......13  
B. Documentation and advisory center of the Swiss Tourist Association.....................................14  
C. Promotion of innovation and cooperati on in the area of tourism..............................................14  
4. Recreational, cultural and sporting services ........................................................................15  
A. Libraries, archives, museums and other cultural services.........................................................15  
(a) Pro Helvetia ................................................................................................................... ...........15  
(b) Support of cultural organizations.............................................................................................. 16 
(c) “Bibliomedia” .................................................................................................................. .........17  
(d) “Landesphonothek”.............................................................................................................. .....18  
(e) “Memoriav” ..................................................................................................................... .........18  
(f) Museum of Transport (“Verkehrshaus”)...................................................................................19  
(g) Promotion of literature for young peop le and children..................... ...................... ..................20  
B. Sporting and other recreational services .................... ...............................................................20  
(a) Promotion of gymnastics and sports organizations...................................................................20  
(b) Promotion of international sport events....................................................................................21  
(c) Construction of sport facilities............................................................................................... ...22 
(d) Extracurricular youth work..................................................................................................... ..22 
(e) Foot paths and hiking trails................................................................................................... ....24  
5. Transport Services............................................................................................................. .....24  
A. Transport and Services by railway............................................................................................24  
(a) Compensation of the combined traffic......................................................................................24  
(b) Investment in combined traffic ................................................................................................. 25 
(c) Technical upgrades and changeover of the operation...............................................................26  
(d) Connection tracks .............................................................................................................. .......26  
(e) Transport of accompanied motor vehicles................................................................................27  
(f) Compensation for the regional transport...................................................................................28  
(g) Price reduction for the wagonload traffic’s lines ......................................................................29  
(h) Infrastructure investment of the Swiss Federal Railways.........................................................29   S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 3 
 
 
 
I. INTRODUCTION  
1. The following answers to the questions on subs idies in the services sector are based on the 
broad definition of subsidies contained in Article  1 of the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing 
Measures.  
2. The response covers all major subsidies rela ted to services granted by the Swiss federal 
government.  It however does not include subsides granted to the cantons or to the communities.  
3. In addition, subsidies in several service sect ors are not included in this response.  A short 
description and reasons for exclusion of these subsidies is given at the beginning under “sectors which 
have not been considered in the answers to the questionnaire”.  Finally, services sectors that receive 
no (major) subsidies are listed explicitly at the be ginning in order to give a broader picture of the 
subsidies situation in Switzerland. 
4. The subsidies programmes are listed accordi ng to the services sectoral classification list 
(MTN.GNS/W/120).  Subsidies that cover several s ectors are listed in the section entitled "horizontal 
measures".  
5. The major sources for the following answer to the questions on subsidies were: 
- Federal Subsidies.  Preliminary estimate 2006.1 
- Database: Federal Subsidies.2   
- Report of the federal council on the examin ation of the federal subsidies, first 
part, June 25th 1997.  
- Report of the federal council on the ex amination of the federal subsidies, 
second part, April 14th 1999.3 
- Systematic Collection of Federal Law (SR).4 
6. This response is submitted without prejudice to Switzerland’s future negotiating position in 
the WTO. 
A. SECTORS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN CONSIDERED IN THE ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONNAIRE  
7. Subsidies related to the following sectors ar e not considered in the answer for the reasons 
mentioned: 
- Educational services : Communities and cantons run most schools; 
universities are run by the cantons, with the exception of the Federal 
Polytechnic High Schools which are funded by the Federal Government.  
- Environmental services : Most federal subsidies in this service section are 
granted to cantons and communes and are therefore not included in the 
response.  
                                                      
1 Source: http://www.efv.admi n.ch/d/finanzen/bundfina/pdf_v _06/Bundessubvent ionen_V2006.pdf 
2 Source: http://www.efv.admin.ch/d/finanzen/subven/index 
3 Source: http://www.efv.admin.ch/d/finanzen/subven/pdf/an1rap2d.pdf 
4 Source: http://www.admin.ch/ch/d/sr/sr.html S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 4  
 
- Health related and social services : State funding in the health sector is very 
common in Switzerland, especially at can tonal level.  Subsidies may take the 
form of direct support to private households (social aid) or of support of hospitals as university clinics.  Most (but not all) hospitals are run by the 
state, but numerous private clinics exist too. 
 
B. SECTORS IN WHICH NO (MAJOR ) SUBSIDIES ARE GRANTED : 
8. In the following sectors no (major) subsidies are being granted in Switzerland: 
- Business services: professional services , computer and related services, real 
estate services, rental/leasing se rvices, other business services 
- Communication services: te lecommunication services 
- Construction and related engineering services 
- Distribution services 
- Financial Services 
- Transport services: maritime  transport services, internal waterways transport, 
air transport services, road transport se rvices, services aux iliary to all modes 
of transport  
C. PARTLY NOT ANSWERED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS OF A GENERAL NATURE  
9. For each subsidy programme the questions 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8 and 10 have been answered.  The 
part of questions 5 concerning the eligible sectors is unaccounted for, since in this response the 
various subsidy programmes are already structured by  sectors.  Concerning question 10 b): there is no 
statistical data available on the impact of subsidies on trade in services.  In addition, most subsidies 
described in this response have no trade distortive effects.  Therefore, question 10 b) is only answered in cases where trade distortive effects might occur.  
10. Questions 3 and 9 are of a general nature and can be answered as follows: 
3. Please indicate the availability, in the case  of your country, of information necessary to 
distinguish subsidies from services from subsidies to goods, e.g. when a company 
produces both goods and services
 
In Switzerland, information to distinguish subs idies for services from subsidies for goods is 
not available.  If a company that receives subsidies produces goods and services, the subsidy 
is accorded in a general manner; no distinction between goods and services is made except where a subsidy is accorded to a certain service sector.
 
9. Please indicate any subsidy disciplines already assumed in the context of regional 
agreements.  
Subsidy disciplines are assumed in the context of free trade agreements of Switzerland with the European Union and within the EFTA.  
 
  S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 5 
 
 
II. HORIZONTAL MEASURES  
A. INVESTMENT PROMOTION AND GUARANTEES FOR MOUNTAINOUS REGIONS (INCLUDING 
IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES ) 
1. Please identify any subsidy programmes related to trade in services, with a brief 
description of each programme. 
The federal government grants investment assistance for infrastructure projects and the 
acquisition of land for industrial or commercial purposes.  
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy. 
- improvement of the living conditions in mountainous regions.  
- improvement of the conditions for economical development and of the 
competitive position of the mountainous areas.  
- sustainment of peripheral settlement s and the socio-cultural diversity.  
- sustainable development of the mountainous areas.  
- equalization of the living conditions of economically weak and economically 
strong areas.  
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
The investment assistance consists of loans or at most direct transfer (contributions to 
interest payments).  
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Regions, communities, private and public corporations.  
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
Financial assistance is only gran ted to the recipients mentioned in answer 5).  The recipients 
must be located in mountainous regions.  Financial assistance might be also subject to 
further obligations.  
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
On a fixed basis. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above. 
There are no specific time limits.  
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted; 
- Investment aid:  for 2004: 44,7 million CHF; no data available for 2006. 
- Guarantees : for 2004: 2,5 million CHF; preliminary estimate for 2006: 2,8 
million CHF. S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 6  
 
- Implementation measures:  for 2004: 7 million CHF; preliminary estimate 
for 2006: 7 million CHF. 
B. G
OVERNMENT AID FOR ECONOMICALLY ENDANGERED REGIONS  
1. Brief description of the programme 
This program strengthens economically endangered regions by means of tax concessions, 
debt guarantees or contribution to interest charges 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
General interest in a good econom ical and employment situation. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance (tax concessions, debt guarantees, contribution to interest charges). 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Private institutions : SMEs. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
Financial assistance might be granted for inno vative projects of industrial enterprises or 
service enterprises if: 
 
- new jobs are created or, 
- existing jobs can be saved in the long run.  
Interplant financial assistance can be granted for existing or new institutions and projects of 
the private and the public sector if: 
 
- initiatives of enterprises are supported that promote the development and 
integration of entrepreneurial and technical competences; 
- these are of value for several enterprises in the concerned economically 
endangered region;  
- if an additional sustainable impulse for the economical development in the 
region will be generated. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
For investment credits the federal government may vouch or grant contributions for interest 
charges for up to one third of the total cost of the project. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
The measure was planned to be limited.  But so  far, the measure has been extended by the 
parliament several times. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 6,3 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 9 million CHF. 
 
  S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 7 
 
 
C. INTERREG  III 
1. Brief description of the programme 
The federal government promotes cross-frontier  cooperation between cantons and regions in 
the line with the initiative of the European Community “INTERREG III” and by means of 
financial assistance. 
 
The federal government grants financial assistance for flanking measures, notably for the 
technical support of programmes and projects. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy. 
- Strengthening of the competitiveness and economic power of the 
participating regions, 
- to create new jobs, 
- promotion of communication and exchange of experience across the 
boarders, 
- strengthening of the regions and the federal structures.   
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Direct transfer of funds (financial assistance) 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
SMEs, private organizations. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
If the beneficiary receives other federal subsidies that constitute more than 50% of the real 
costs of the Swiss share, no financial assistance will be granted. There has to be a request of the Swiss body responsible for the project. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
Recipients of subsidies have to make a persona l contribution of at least 10 % of the Swiss 
share of the project.  
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
The programme INTERREG III runs from 2000 to 2006.  The subsidies are granted in line 
with the allotted budget. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 5,9 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 5,9 million CHF. 
 S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
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III. SECTORAL MEASURES 
1. Business Services 
A. R
ESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES  
(a) Contribution to the infrastructure of cancer research in Switzerland 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Contribution to the infrastructure of ca ncer research institutes in Switzerland.   
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Support of the experimental and applied cancer research. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Direct transfer of funds (financial assistance). 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Eligible for this subsidy are the Swiss institute for experimental cancer research and the 
institute for applied cancer research.  Further contributions go to the Swiss Cancer League.  
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
In order to receive financial assistance, the organizations have to submit a request, which 
includes a description of the activities, the planned activities, the bud get and the reasons for 
the organizational legal entity.  
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
The contribution has to be in an adequate relation to the interest of the federal government, 
to the personal contributions of the instituti on and the contributions of other interested 
communities, institutions and enterprises. The contributions should no be higher than 50% of the operating expenses of the institutes. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
The financial assistance is granted for a period of four years.  After that, a new request has 
to be submitted. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy grante d 
For 2004: 4.95 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 5,1 million CHF. 
 
 
(b) Swiss National Fund 
1. Brief description of the programme 
The association “Swiss National Fund” (Sch weizerischer Nationalf onds) is the most 
important institution in Switzerland for the promo tion of research.  It promotes all scientific 
disciplines.  The federal government may mandate the Swiss National Fund to conduct 
national research programmes.  S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 9 
 
 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
To strengthen the position of Switzerland in  research key areas.  Promotion of the 
interdisciplinary cooperation. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial compensation. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
The Swiss National Fund.  
With the contribution to the Swiss National Fund about 3`000 scientific  projects and 7`000 
scientist are supported per year. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
The first beneficiary is just the Swiss National Fu nd.  It is possible for all scientists active in 
Switzerland to apply for a grant of the Swiss Na tional Fund.  Nationality is no criteria in 
order to receive grants from the Swiss Nationa l Fund.  Criteria can be for example age, 
scientific qualification a nd research experience. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
- 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
No specific time limit. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
2004: 359 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 435 million CHF. 
 
 
(c) Swiss Academies for Natural Scie nces / Humanities / Medical Scie nces / Technical Sciences  
1. Brief description of the programme 
The four academies (mentioned under point 5) are recognized by the federal government for 
the promotion of research.  Their main ta sks are the promotion of cooperation among 
scientists, cooperation with national and interna tional institutions, the realization of studies 
and long-term projects and the elaboration of scientific development prospects. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
To promote scientific research and the analysis of the results. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Direct transfer of funds (financial assistance). 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
The following private institutions: Swiss Acad emy for Natural Sciences, Swiss Academy for 
Humanities, Swiss Academy for Medical Sciences, Swiss Acad emy for Technical Sciences. S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 10  
 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
The federal government has to approve the bylaws of the academies. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
The federal government is responsible for up to 90% of academies’ financing. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
The parliament approves the amount of financial assistance for a period of four years.  Then, 
a new approval is necessary. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004:    -  
- Swiss Academy for Natural Sciences: 5,4 million CHF 
- Swiss Academy for Humanities: 6,2 million CHF 
- Swiss Academy for Medical Sciences: 1,5 million CHF 
- Swiss Academy for Technical Sciences: 1,4 million CHF 
Preliminary estimate for 2006 (for all academies together): 23,5 million CHF 
 
 
(d) Contribution to research on animal diseases 
1. Brief description of the programme 
With this subsidy research projects on animal  diseases and animal welfare are supported. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
By means of this programme, scientific research  shall be obtained in order to have a basis 
for new laws, regulations and an active contribu tion to the reduction of animal experiments. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
The research institution “3R” and the faculties of veterinary medicine in Bern and Zurich. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
Especially methods that can do without animal experiments or that onl y make reduces use of 
animal experiments are supported. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
-  S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 11 
 
 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Annual credit. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
0,524 million CHF for 2004.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 0,534 million CHF. 
 
 
2. Communication Services 
A. AUDIOVISUAL SERVICES  
(a) Public film funding; promotion of film culture and formation and further education for film 
professions 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Promotion of Swiss films.  This is possible in different ways: 
 
- through selective film funding; 
- through performance-related film funding and 
- through the Swiss Film Award. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy. 
The promotion of Swiss films is in the public interest.  The aims of this subsidy are: 
 
- the promotion of the quality and diversity of films 
- the spreading of film culture and the deepening of the understanding of films 
- the promotion of Film festivals that contribute significantly to the national 
and international film culture 
- the indexing and restoration of films 
- the cooperation of the different sectors of the branch of trade 
- international cooperation in the area of film 
- the promotion of the formation and further education of film professionals 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance in form of non refundab le payments, interest grants, guarantees and 
conditional refundable loans. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Private institutions 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 12  
 
Eligible for subsidies under this programm e are the project development for and the 
production of Swiss films or of films co-produced by Switzerland and foreign countries.  
 A “Swiss film” is a film that is produced significantly by a person of Swiss nationality or 
Swiss residency; or that is produced by an enterprise with business location Switzerland, 
whose equities and borrowed capital is, by the majority, in the hand of persons with Swiss residency and whose executive board consists, by the majority, of people with Swiss 
residency and, as far as possible, that is produced by technical collaborators of Swiss 
nationality or residency and by t echnical companies in Switzerland.  
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
The Federal Office for Culture allocates the ava ilable funds each year to the different areas 
of film promotion (i.e. selective film funding,  performance-related film funding, Swiss Film 
Award).  The concept of promotion is taken in  account and the federal office sets up a 
maximum amount of contributions for a single project. 
 The performance-related film funding is ba sed on the success Swiss film have in the 
cinemas.  The financial assistance is calculated on the basis of the tickets sold. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above. 
Annual credit. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted; 
Film funding:  
For 2004: 22,4.  million.  Preliminar y estimate for 2006: 23.4 million CHF. 
 
Film culture: 
For 2004: 4,2 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2005: 4,7 million CHF.  
Formation and further education of film professionals: 
For 2004: 2,5 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 2,3 million CHF.  
 
(b) Radio and television services 
1. Brief description of the programme 
The national radio and television company SRG r eceives the largest part of the television 
license fees.  Exceptionally, loca l or regional radio and television operators are also given 
some of the revenues. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy. 
To support the cultural offer of the country and its population. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Mandatory fees. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s that are eligible under the subsidy. 
The national radio and television company (SRG ) and to a small extent local or regional 
radio and television operators. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
In order to broadcast radio or television programmes in Switzerla nd, a concession is 
necessary.  S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 13 
 
 
 
In order to receive a grant for broadcasting  local radio and television programme, the 
applicant has to have its residency in th e broadcasting area and the share of in-house 
production has to be adequate to the air time and the situation of the broadcasting area. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
On a fixed basis 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above. 
No time limits 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted; 
For 2003: Approximately 1100 million CHF of mandatory fees. 
 
 3. Tourism and Travel Related Services  
A. “S
WISS TOURISM ” 
1. Brief description of the programme 
“Swiss Tourism” (ST) is a public corporation with worldwide activities in favor of 
Switzerland.  It promotes the holiday des tination Switzerland ab road.  The financial 
contribution of the federal government makes up 2/3 of the total budget of the corporation.   
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
The promotion of the holiday destination Switzerland is in the public interest of Switzerland, 
since tourism is an important sector of the economy.  
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Direct transfer of funds (financial assistance). 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Only the public cooperation “Swiss Tourism”. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
There is a service level agreement between “Swiss Tourism” and the Swiss Confederation. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
Lump sum payment on the basis of the height of the allotted federal budget. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Credit approved by the Parliament for the peri od 2005 – 2009.  Hereafter a new approval 
will be necessary.  
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 40,4 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 46 million CHF 
 S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 14  
 
 
B. D
OCUMENTATION AND ADVISORY CENTER OF THE SWISS TOURIST ASSOCIATION  
1. Brief description of each programme 
Financial assistance for the documentation and advisory center of the tourist association. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
The information and documentation services provided by the center play a rather important 
role in the implementation of the federal touris m policy.  Especially small touristic places 
profit from the service provided by the documentation and advisory center. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
The documentation and information cent er of the Swiss Tourist Association 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
None. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
Fixed annual financial assistance. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Annual credit. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 0,1 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 0,1 million CHF 
 
 
C. PROMOTION OF INNOVATION AND COOPERATION IN THE AREA OF TOURISM  
1. Brief description of the programme 
Promotion of the innovation in the area of the introduction of new products, services and 
channels of distribution, promotion of quality. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
To promote innovation and cooperation in tourism. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Direct transfer of funds (financial assistance). 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Various private institutions. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
Projects will only be supported when:   S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 15 
 
 
 
- they strengthen the Swiss competitiv eness in the area of tourism,  
- when they promote the development of tourism in a way that is consistent 
with nature, human beings, environment and ensure employment 
opportunities; and  
- have a model character or activate considerable impulses for touristy 
innovation in a region. 
In addition, the project has to be implemented in an interplant manner. 
7.  Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
50% of the total cost of the project can be gr anted.  For projects in context with R&D all 
cost can be granted. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
No specific time limits. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004:  8,8 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 6,9 million CHF. 
 
 
4. Recreational, cultural and sporting services 
A. LIBRARIES , ARCHIVES , MUSEUMS AND OTHER CULTURAL SERVICES  
(a) Pro Helvetia 
1. Brief description of the programme 
The federal government finances the operation of the foundation "Pro Helvetia" since its 
establishment of this foundation.  The foundation Pro Helvetia has an important coordination and promotion function. 
2.  Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Promotion of cultural production in Switzer land, promotion of cultural presence of 
Switzerland abroad, support of the peripheral regions and disadvantaged population groups, 
preservation of culture and folk culture.  The f oundation fulfills tasks that are part of the 
public agenda. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
As first recipient only the foundation “Pro Helvetia”.  As second recipients: private 
institutions.  
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
No. S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 16  
 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
- 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
No specific time limits.  The amount of financia l aid is always calculated for a period of four 
years; afterwards a new federal resolution is necessary. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
2004: 34,7 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 33,1 million CHF. 
 
 
(b) Support of cultural organizations 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Under this programme, cultural organizati ons, cultural active layman and umbrella 
organizations of such organizations are supported. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Promotion of the activities of persons engaged in the cultural sector; securing the cultural 
services of cultural organizations 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Annual financial assistance. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Private institutions. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
The supported organizations (or private persons)  have to operate in whole Switzerland (i.e. 
activities in at least two language areas) 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
The subsidy is calculated according to ki nd and importance of the cultural activities, 
structure and size of the organization, reasonab le personal contribution of the organization 
and the ratio between the resources available and the number of applicants.  The contributions shouldn’t be higher than twice the amount of the personal contributions and 
the contributions of third pers ons the organizations receive. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Limited to one year, hereafter a new request has to be submitted 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
2004: 3,8 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 3,3 million CHF. 
 
 
  S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 17 
 
 
(c) “Bibliomedia” 
1. Brief description of the programme 
The federal government supports the foundation “Bibliomedia” since 1921.  The activities 
of “Bibliomedia” includes:  
- the supplementation and renewal of the choice of books and other media in 
public libraries 
- jump starts for the establishmen t of local and regional libraries 
- counseling in matters concerning the libraries 
- organization of reading promotion activities 
- establishment of internet working places in local and regional libraries, 
internet training for librarians. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Bibliomedia fulfills a function of national importance for the public libraries and schools in 
Switzerland.  These activities are in the interest  of the federal government.  The activities of 
Bibliomedia help to guarantee a vivid network of  libraries in all regions of Switzerland.  The 
financial aid of the federal government is an  essential contribution to the cooperation and 
coherence of the libraries.  Due to “Bibliomedia”  also small libraries are able to offer their 
readers an updated card index and attractive and modern services. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Only the foundation “Bibiomedia” 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
None 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
- 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
No specific time limit.  The parliament deci des on the financial aid for a certain period of 
time. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 2 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 1,5 million CHF 
 
 
 S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 18  
 
(d) “Landesphonothek” 
1. Brief description of the programme 
The federal government grants financial assist ance to the association “Landesphonothek” 
since 1990.  The association also receives contributions by the canton of Tessin and the community of Lugano (canton and community of the association’s domicile).   
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Indexing and archiving of national sound storage mediums. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Only the Swiss association “Landesphonothek”. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
None. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
Lump sum payment on the basis of the height of the allotted federal budget. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
No time limit. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
2004: 0,99 million CHF, preliminary es timate for 2006: no data available. 
  
(e) “Memoriav”  
1. Brief description of the programme 
The federal government supports the indexing of audiovisual objects of cultural value with 
an annual contribution to the costs of “Memoriav” (Association for the preservation of 
audiovisual objects of cultural value). 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Conservation, indexing and procurement of  audiovisual documents in Switzerland.  
Memoriav fulfills a task of national importance  in the interest of the federal government. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Direct transfer of funds (financial assistance). 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Only the association “Memoriav”.   S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 19 
 
 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
None 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
The budget of Memoriav consists 85% of federal grants. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
No specific time limit.  The parliament decides on the financial aid for a period of four 
years. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 1,3 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 2,9 million CHF. 
 
 
(f) Museum of Transport (“Verkehrshaus”) 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Since the mid-1990s, the Museum of Transport suffers from financial problems.  This is the 
reason why the federal government supports the Museum of Transport with an annual financial assistance since 1999. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
To ensure the operation of the Museum.  The Museum fulfills as a center for information 
and discussion for questions of mobility a task of public interest. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprises which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Only the Museum of Transport in Lucerne. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
The city of Lucerne, the canton Lucerne and th e other central Swiss cantons (Uri, Schwyz, 
Obwalden, Nidwalden and Zug) have to make th emselves an adequate financial contribution 
to the funding of the Museum of Transport in Lucerne.  There is a service level agreement betwee n the Museum of Transport and the federal 
government. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
On a fixed bases in line with the allotted budget. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
The parliament has decided to grant financial aid for the period of 2004 - 2007.  Afterwards 
a new approval is necessary. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy ou tlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 1,58 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 1,6 million CHF. S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 20  
 
 
(g) Promotion of literature for young people and children 
1. Brief description of the programme 
The federal government supports organizations that make a significant contribution to 
reading promotion.  This b ecause the reading and language culture is more and more 
endangered by the increase of electronic media. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Promotion of language and reading culture among children and young people. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Annual financial assistance. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprises which are eligible under the subsidy.   
Five organizations that promote literatu re for young people and children (i.e. 
Schweizerisches Jugendschriftwerk, Schweizerisches Jugendbuchinstitut, Bund für 
Jugendliteratur, Schweizerischer Bibliotheksd ienst, Livres sans frontières-suisse). 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
None 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
According to the performance of each organization. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Annual credit. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 0,963 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 0,97 million CHF. 
  
B. S
PORTING AND OTHER RECREATIONAL SERVICES  
(a) Promotion of gymnastics and sports organizations 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Promotion of professional formation of prof essional and popular sport teachers and support 
of the sports scientific research (doping) 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Promotion of sports and gymnastics. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Direct transfer of funds (financial assistance). 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Private institutions: gymnastics and sport organizations.  S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 21 
 
 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
- 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
The final confirmation of the contribution takes place at the beginning of the year on the 
basis of the allotted budget and the applications.  There are several other criteria that have an 
influence on the height of the financial support: For example the number of members, 
number of associations, personal contributions, and the importance of competitive sporting events.  An order of priority is used in the se nse of that sports organizations with less than 
2`500 members receive a fixe d amount financial aid.  
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Annual credit. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 5,5 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2005: 5,7 million CH 
  
(b) Promotion of international sport events 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Based on a decision of the federal council, th e federal government is committed to guarantee 
to a certain extent for deficits that might aris e in the context of the organization of European 
or World Championships. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Promotion of international sport events in Switzerland, with the aim to strengthen the 
reputation of Switzerland abroad, promotion of the professional sport 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Guarantee for a limited cove rage of a possible deficit 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Private Institutions: Organizers of World or European Championships or similar 
international sport events. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
The support for international spor t events is based on a discretionary clause.  There is no 
legal claim for contributions. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
- 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Annual credit. S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 22  
 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy ou tlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 0,49 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 0,5 million CHF. 
 
(c) Construction of sport facilities 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Several sport facilities in Switzerland did not (d o not) satisfy today’s requirements.  Many 
stadiums were (are) out of date and had (have)  to be renewed.  As a consequence of those 
short-comings international sport events are less likely to take place in Switzerland if there 
is no investment into new or renewed sport facilities. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Support of the construction of sport facilities of national importance. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Sponsorship of sport facilities. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
The operation, the funding and use of the facilitie s have to be guarante ed in the long run. 
The priorization of the project that fulfill the eligibility criteria is made according to 
importance of the project and th e sport concerned, the share of us for national activities and 
the intermediate inputs and funding by the sponsorship. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
The height of federal financial assistance is 15 to 45 % of the allowable costs. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Credit duration of four years. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 7,2 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 0,1 million CHF. 
 
 
(d) Extracurricular youth work 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Youth organizations and sponsorship for extracurricular youth work receive financial 
support for the formation of young people in the function of a leader or a tutor, or the 
organization of national and in ternational events as well as national and international youth 
exchange projects.  
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
There is a public interest in a healthy, critical, active, social and cultural active youth.  S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 23 
 
 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Direct transfer of funds (financial assistance): Annual lump sum payment for youth 
organizations, contribution for the formation of young people in the function of a leader or a 
tutor and project-orientated financial assistance .  There are also other forms of subsidies 
possible like the lending of material, transport activities or the free delivery of federal print 
products. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
About 130 youth organizations and sponsorship of extracurricular youth work. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
The sponsorship has to be assumed by associations, organizations or groups that are 
principally active in extracurricular youth work and groups and have no aspiration for profit.  
 Additional eligibility criteria for support of projects: 
 
- the project has to be realized in th e area of extracurricular youth work  
- the project cannot be profit-orientated. 
- the supported project has to be realized with the active support of young 
people (establishment, preparation, realization and continuation of the 
project) 
- the supported project has to have a “na tional focus” (e.g. covers more than 
one canton or language region), especial ly regarding the participation of the 
young people 
- the project has to be an extraordinary activity.  
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
The financial aid is calculated according to: 
 
- the structure and the size of the sponsorship 
- the type and the importance of the activity or the project  
- the services on own account and the contribution of third parties 
 
The financial aid is not higher than 50 % of the allowable costs. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Annual credit. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 6,6 million CHF.  No preliminary estimate available for 2006. 
 S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 24  
 
(e) Foot paths and hiking trails 
1. Brief description of the programme 
The federal government supports private organizations for their work concerning footpaths 
and hiking trails.  That is for planning, creation and maintenance of the footpaths and hiking trails in Switzerland. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Health, quality of life, promotio n of tourism, protection of th e quality and the area coverage 
of the footpath and hiking trail net. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Direct transfer of funds (financial assistance). 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Two specialized organizations, the ARF (the Sw iss consortium for “Rights for Pedestrians”) 
and the SAW (the Swiss Consortium for hiking tracks / Swiss hiking tracks) receive a fixed 
amount of financial aid. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
Eligible are only the above mentione d specialized private institutions.  
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
Fixed basis 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
None 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 1,5 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 2,3 million CHF. 
  
5. Transport Services 
A. T
RANSPORT SERVICES BY RAILWAY  
(a) Compensation of the combined traffic 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Co-financing of the equipment, container and vehicles for the combined traffic in 
Switzerland.  
2.  Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Promotion of the combined traffic.  
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Compensation.  S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 25 
 
 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
The Swiss Federal Railways (state owned comp any) and other transport companies with a 
concession. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
Concession. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
According to environmental and traffic policy ai ms and the degree of profitableness of the 
company.  If the latter can’t be calculated th en the subsidies are granted according to the 
costs and the estimated transport volume.  Subsidies below 30`000 francs won’t be 
disbursed. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Annual credit. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004:  203 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 220 million CHF. 
  
(b) Investment in combined traffic  
1. Brief description of the programme 
With this subsidy, the building of terminals for the combined traffic in Switzerland and 
abroad is supported.  
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Promotion of the combined traffic.  The federa l government has a temporally limited interest  
in the building of terminals for the combined tr affic.  Like this, the through traffic will be 
brought on the tracks and the Swiss transit roads will be disburdened. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance (loan, non refundable payments) 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Private institutions (entreprises). 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
- 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
Up to 100% of the allowable costs. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above. 
Annual credit. S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 26  
 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted; 
For 2004: 49,1 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 40 million CHF. 
 
 
(c) Technical upgrades and changeover of the operation 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Contribution to the investment of tr ansport companies with a concession. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Improvement of the economic efficiency, cap acity and the reliability of the transport 
companies.  Renewal and change of existing equipment.  Contribution to changeovers of an 
operation by railway to an operation by bus. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance in form of a loan, non  refundable payments or participation. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Transport companies with a concession. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
As a general rule, the federal government makes only a contribution if the canton(s) 
contribute(s) too. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
The federal contributions make up 5 to 50 % of the unfunded costs. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above. 
No time limit is intended. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted; 
For 2004: 159,1 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 168,2 million CHF. 
 
 
(d) Connection tracks 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Contribution to the construc tion of connecting tracks.  
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Promotion of the construction of  connection tracks in order to dislocate the freight transport 
from the roads to the tracks. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Direct transfer of funds (financial assistance).  S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 27 
 
 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Enterprises (owner of the connecting tracks). 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
Financial aid can only be granted when the following volume of freight is turned over per 
year:   
- 7’500 tons or 450 cars for connection to stations with a annual turnover of 
freight of at least 20`000 tons; or  
- 12 000 tons or 720 cars for station who have a annual turnover of less than 20 
000 tons as well as for exceptionally approved connection in an open track.  
No subsidies are granted for the maintenance of the tracks. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
For “regular tracks” the subsidies are no higher than 50 to 60 % of the allowable costs.  For 
“connecting” and “lading tracks” the subsides are no higher than 40 to 50 %, in exceptional 
case 60 % of the allowable costs. Determination criteria for the rate of contribution are:  
 
- for “regular tracks”: the as sumed number of “connectors”; 
- for “connecting” and “lading tracks” the estimated annual transport volume 
or the estimated number of wagon loads; and 
- the height of allowable costs. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Annual credit. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
2004: 17,1 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 22 million CHF. 
 
 
(e) Transport of accompanied motor vehicles  
1. Brief description of the programme 
The programme is financed by an earmarked ta x on mineral oil.  This subsidy has been 
reduced significantly during the last ten years. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Price reduction of the transport of accompa nied motor vehicles, if reasonable for 
environmental and traffic policy objectives. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance. S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 28  
 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Transport companies.  The subsidy programme concerns the transport of accompanied 
motor vehicles through the Lötschberg, the Furka, the Oberalp and the Albula. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
The assistance is granted according to the factual and time urgency. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
Contribution for each transported car. 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Annual credit. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
3,2 million CHF for 2004.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 3,4 million CHF. 
  
(f) Compensation for the regional transport 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Compensation for the regional transport. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Compensation of the unfunded budget cost of the regional transport. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Compensation.  The compensation is on one side financed by the federal government, on the 
other side by the cantons. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Swiss Federal Railways and transport companies with concession. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
Transport companies are eligible to compensation 
 
- if they construct or maintain a railway infrastructure according to the law or 
if they maintain of construct another infrastructure that serves the regular 
passenger transportation or 
- if they transport persons by means of li ne operation on basis of a concession, 
an authorization or a treaty; 
- if they transport goods on Swiss railway tracks that are subject to law or by 
aerial passenger line  S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
 Page 29 
 
 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
- 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
The federal council decides on the contribution for the regional transport four years in 
advance in line with the estimate of cost and the fiscal planning. 
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 1’196 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 1’304 million CHF. 
 
 
(g) Price reduction for the wagonload traffic’s lines 
1. Brief description of the programme 
Contribution to the infrastructure of the wagonload traffic. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Promotion of the freight transport by railway by means of price reduction for the wagonload 
traffic in order to maintain the competitiveness of the railway transport.   This is necessary 
because of the authorized increase of the weight that camns are allowed to transport. 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Financial assistance. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
Transport companies. 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
None. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
- 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above 
Limited to the period from 2000 to 2010.  
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted 
For 2004: 66,3 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 20 million CHF 
 
 
(h) Infrastructure investment of the Swiss Federal Railways  
1. Brief description of the programme 
Financing of the basic infrastructure of the Swiss Federal Railways. 
2. Please state the policy objectives underlying the use of each subsidy 
Environmental and traffic policy objectives. S/WPGR/W/16/Add.5 
Page 30  
 
4. Please indicate the form of each subsidy (e.g. tax concession, loan, grant etc.) 
Compensation in form of a loan or non refundable payments. 
5. Unless previously indicated, please state which sectors are eligible under the subsidy 
and/or the estimated number of enterprise s which are eligible under the subsidy. 
The Swiss Federal railways (state-owned enterprise)
 
6. Please indicate the eligibility criteria for subsidies (location, nationality, destination of 
output, or any other condition). 
There is a service level agreement (always valid for four years) between the federal 
government and the Swiss Federal Railways. 
7. Please indicate how the subsidy is calculated (e.g. on production, on exports, on a fixed or 
fluctuating basis, etc.). 
- 
8. Please specify any time limits attached to the subsidies described above. 
The service level agreement has to be renewed after four years.  The current service level 
agreement is valid from 2003 to 2006.  
10. Where such information is available, Members may wish to indicate: 
a) Subsidy per unit or total annual subsidy outlays in respect of each subsidy granted; 
For 2004: 517,3 million CHF.  Preliminary estimate for 2006: 476,2 million CHF. 
 
 
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