Important trade shows
Switzerland is known for its strong presence in the international market as a hub for various industries. The country boasts significant purchasing power and hosts several important international buyers, development channels, and exhibitions.
One of the key international procuring channels in Switzerland is the World Trade Organization (WTO). WTO defines rules governing global trade between nations, and Switzerland plays an active role as a member state. Through its participation in the WTO, Switzerland has access to a broad network of member countries that can serve as potential buyers or suppliers.
Another significant avenue for international procurement is the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). EFTA consists of four member states, including Switzerland. It facilitates free trade among its members and provides access to markets across Europe. International buyers can leverage this platform to establish connections with Swiss companies for procurement purposes.
Switzerland also hosts several important exhibitions that attract international buyers from various industries. One such event is Baselworld, which showcases luxury watches and jewelry. This renowned exhibition offers an opportunity for watchmakers, jewelers, and other related businesses to present their products to a global audience of potential buyers.
In addition to Baselworld, Geneva International Motor Show is another notable exhibition held annually in Switzerland. It brings together leading automobile manufacturers from around the world who use this platform to introduce new models and engage with potential customers or partners.
Furthermore, Zurich hosts events like Zurich Game Show which focus on gaming and technology industry attracting exhibitors showcasing their latest products and offering opportunities for business development through partnerships with prospective international buyers attending the show.
Apart from these specific exhibitions targeting certain industries, there are also general trade fairs held throughout Switzerland that foster regional or global connections between suppliers and purchasers across multiple sectors such as ITB Exhibition showcasing travel-related products & services or Swiss Plastics Expo targeting plastic industry professionals.
Moreover, organizations like Swisstech Association or Swiss Global Enterprise organize numerous conferences/workshops throughout the year that aim at improving networking opportunities between international buyers and Swiss companies.
Switzerland's strong reputation for quality, precision, innovation, and reliability makes it an attractive destination for international buyers. The country's well-established infrastructure, political stability, and skilled workforce contribute to its status as a reliable partner in global trade. Whether through participation in global organizations like WTO or EFTA or by attending prestigious exhibitions like Baselworld or Geneva International Motor Show, Switzerland offers numerous avenues for international procurement that can lead to fruitful business opportunities.
Common search engines
In Switzerland, some of the commonly used search engines are:
1. Google - The most popular and widely used search engine in Switzerland is Google. It provides comprehensive search results and a range of services such as Google Maps, Gmail, Google Drive, etc. Website: www.google.ch
2. Bing - Another widely used search engine in Switzerland is Bing. It offers web search results along with various features like image and video searches, news aggregation, and maps integration. Website: www.bing.com
3. Yahoo - Although not as popular as Google or Bing in Switzerland, Yahoo still serves as a significant search engine for many users. It provides web search results along with news articles, email services (Yahoo Mail), and more. Website: www.yahoo.com
4. DuckDuckGo - A privacy-focused search engine that has gained popularity worldwide also has its presence in Switzerland. DuckDuckGo prioritizes user privacy by not tracking their searches or showing personalized ads while delivering relevant web results anonymously.
5. Ecosia - Ecosia is an environmentally friendly alternative to mainstream search engines since it uses its revenues to plant trees around the world through partnerships with various tree-planting organizations.
6. Swisscows - A Swiss-based privacy-focused search engine that does not collect any personal data from its users while offering localized web searches.
These are just a few examples of commonly used search engines in Switzerland; however, it's essential to note that many people still use international mainstream options like Google or Bing due to their extensive functionality and wider reach across the internet.
Major yellow pages
In Switzerland, the main yellow pages directories are:
1. Local.ch - This is the leading online directory in Switzerland that provides information on businesses and individuals across the country. It also offers maps, addresses, phone numbers, and customer reviews. (Website: www.local.ch)
2. Swiss Guide - Swiss Guide is an online directory specifically designed for tourists visiting Switzerland. It provides information on hotels, restaurants, shops, attractions, and events in various regions of Switzerland. (Website: www.swissguide.ch)
3. Yellowmap - Yellowmap is an online business directory that covers all major cities in Switzerland. It allows users to search for local businesses by category or location and provides contact details such as addresses and phone numbers.(Website: www.yellowmap.ch)
4. Compages - Compages is a comprehensive telephone book for Switzerland that includes residential as well as business listings across various regions of the country.(Website: www.compages.ch)
These directories offer a wide range of information about businesses and services available in different parts of Switzerland. Whether you are looking for a restaurant in Zurich or a hotel in Geneva, these websites can assist you in finding what you need.
It's essential to note that individual cities or regions within Switzerland may have their own specific yellow page directories catering to local businesses exclusively.
Major commerce platforms
There are several major e-commerce platforms in Switzerland, catering to the diverse needs of the population. Below is a list of some prominent ones along with their website URLs:
1. Digitec Galaxus: As Switzerland's largest online retailer, it offers a wide range of products including electronics, computers, household appliances, fashion items, and more. Website: www.digitec.ch / www.galaxus.ch
2. Zalando: Specializing in fashion and lifestyle products for women, men, and children, Zalando provides a vast selection of clothing, shoes, accessories from various brands. Website: www.zalando.ch
3. LeShop.ch/Coop@home: This platform is ideal for grocery shopping online as it allows customers to order food and household items from Coop supermarkets with delivery right to their doorstep. Website: www.coopathome.ch
4. microspot.ch: Microspot offers various consumer electronics such as smartphones, laptops, TVs along with home appliances and other tech gadgets at competitive prices. Website: www.microspot.ch
5. Interdiscount/Melectronics/Metro Boutique/Do it + Garden Migros/Migrolino/Warehouse Micasa/etc.: These are different branches under Migros Group that offer specific categories like electronics (Interdiscount & Melectronics), fashion (Metro Boutique), home improvement (Do it + Garden Migros), convenience stores (Migrolino), furniture/household goods (Warehouse Micasa). Websites vary but can be found on the official website of Migros Group.
6. Brack Electronics AG (pcdigatih) i.e., BRACK.CH This platform specializes in selling electronic devices including computers & peripherals to gaming consoles at competitive rates while also providing technical support services.
Website : https://www.brack.ch/
7.Toppreise-ch.TOPPREISE-CH compares prices across different websites allowing customers to find the best deals on electronics, home appliances, and other products. By providing information on product ratings, it assists users in making informed decisions.
Website: www.toppreise.ch
8. Siroop: This marketplace offers a wide range of products including electronics, fashion items, home & living products. Apart from various brands the platform also focuses on local Swiss shops to promote domestic business.
Website : www.siroop.ch
These are some of the major e-commerce platforms in Switzerland catering to different consumer needs and preferences.
Major social media platforms
Switzerland has a number of social media platforms that are widely popular among its population. Here is a list of some of the prominent social media platforms in Switzerland along with their website links:
1. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com
Facebook is the most widely used social media platform in Switzerland, allowing people to connect with friends and family, share posts, photos, and videos.
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com
Instagram is a photo and video-sharing platform that enjoys significant popularity among Swiss users for sharing visual content.
3. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com
LinkedIn is a professional networking site where individuals can connect with colleagues, build professional relationships, and search for job opportunities.
4. Xing: https://www.xing.com
Xing is another professional networking platform popular in Switzerland, especially among German-speaking professionals.
5. Twitter: https://twitter.com
Twitter allows users to share short messages or "tweets" which can include text, photos, or videos that Swiss users utilize for communication and staying updated on current topics.
6. Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com
Snapchat offers instant photo messaging and multimedia sharing features that are enjoyed by young Swiss users for quick communication.
7. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/en/
TikTok has seen significant growth in Switzerland recently among younger demographics as it enables users to create short videos set to music or audio clips.
8. Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ch/
Pinterest serves as an inspiration-based platform where Swiss users discover ideas across various interests such as cooking recipes, home decor plans etc., through visual content known as pins.
9.Media Center (Schweizer Medienzentrum): http://medienportal.ch/
Media Center provides easy access to press releases from Swiss companies and organizations along with images from different events happening across the country.
These are just some examples of the social media platforms popular in Switzerland. It is important to note that the popularity may vary among different age groups and regions within the country.
Major industry associations
Switzerland has a strong association culture and is home to several prominent industry associations. These associations play a crucial role in representing the interests of various sectors, fostering collaboration, setting standards, and promoting economic growth. Below are some of the major industry associations in Switzerland along with their websites:
1. Swissmem - Association for the MEM Industries (Mechanical, Electrical and Metal)
Website: https://www.swissmem.ch/
2. SwissHoldings - The Swiss Business Federation
Website: https://www.swissholdings.com/
3. Swissbanking - Swiss Bankers Association
Website: https://www.swissbanking.org/
4. economiesuisse - The Confederation of Swiss Business
Website: https://www.economiesuisse.ch/en
5. Swico - Information technology and communication association
Website: https://www.swico.ch/home-en
6. PharmaSuisse - The Pharmaceutical Society of Switzerland
Website: https://www.pharmasuisse.org/en/
7. SVIT Schweiz – The Real Estate Association of Switzerland
Website: http://svit-schweiz.ch/english.html
8. Swissoil – The Federation of Dealers in Petroleum Products
Website (German): http://swissoil.ch/startseite.html
9. Swatch Group – Organization representing watch manufacturers
Websites for individual brands within the group:
Omega Watches website: http://omega-watches.com/
Tissot website: http:/tissotwatches.com/
Longines website : http:/longineswatches.com/
10.Schweizerischer Gewerbeverband / Federatio des Artisans et Commercants Suisses -- Umbrella organization representing SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises)
These are just a few examples of the numerous industry associations that contribute significantly to Switzerland's economy. Please note that some associations may have websites available only in German or French.
Business and trade websites
Switzerland, known for its financial stability and high-quality products, has a strong economy and thriving trade industry. Here are some of the key economic and trade websites in Switzerland:
1. Swiss Federal Office for Economic Affairs (SECO)
Website: https://www.seco.admin.ch/seco/en/home.html
SECO is responsible for promoting favorable conditions for Switzerland's economic growth. Their website offers comprehensive information on various aspects of the Swiss economy, including business opportunities, investment climate, market research reports, trade statistics, as well as regulations and legislation.
2. Swiss International Trade Association (SwissCham)
Website: https://www.swisscham.org/
SwissCham is a leading business network organization representing Swiss companies operating internationally. Their website provides an extensive directory of member companies categorized by industries and services offered. Additionally, it offers news updates on global business trends related to Switzerland.
3. Switzerland Global Enterprise
Website: https://www.s-ge.com/
Switzerland Global Enterprise (S-GE) supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in expanding their international business activities. Their website offers valuable resources like export guides, market analyses, information about upcoming trade fairs and events both within Switzerland and globally.
4. Zurich Chamber of Commerce
Website: https://zurich.chamber.swiss/
The Zurich Chamber of Commerce promotes economic development in the canton of Zurich by connecting businesses locally and internationally. The website highlights regional economic news articles together with information about regional industry clusters nurturing collaboration opportunities.
5. Geneva Chamber of Commerce
Website: https://genreve.ch/?lang=en
The Geneva Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in supporting local businesses through various initiatives aimed at enhancing the region's competitiveness globally. The website showcases key sectors driving the Geneva economy along with events calendars promoting networking between companies.
6.Swiss Business Hub China
Website :https://www.s-ge.com/en/success-stories/swiss-business-hub-china
Swiss Business Hub China acts as a bridge between Swiss companies and their Chinese counterparts. This website helps Swiss firms establish or expand their presence in China while providing essential news, tips, market intelligence, and local insights on doing business in China.
These websites provide essential trade-related information, access to business directories, market data, and other resources necessary for economic growth and trade opportunities in Switzerland.
Trade data query websites
There are several trade data querying websites available for Switzerland. Here are a few of them along with their respective website URLs:
1. Swiss Federal Customs Administration (Eidgenössische Zollverwaltung)
Website: www.ezv.admin.ch
2. Swiss Center for Competitiveness (formerly KOF Swiss Economic Institute)
Website: www.sccer.unisg.ch/en
3. World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS) database by the World Bank
Website: https://wits.worldbank.org/CountryProfile/en/Country/CHL/Year/LTST/TradeFlow/EXPIMP/Product/
4. International Trade Centre (ITC) - The Market Access Map
Website: https://www.macmap.org/
5. United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
Website: http://unctadstat.unctad.org/
These websites provide comprehensive information on Switzerland's trade statistics, including exports, imports, commodity breakdowns, partner countries, value of goods traded, and more.
Please note that availability and accuracy of the data may vary among different sources. It is advisable to refer to official government websites or recognized international organizations for reliable trade data information.
B2b platforms
Switzerland is known for its highly developed and thriving B2B sector. Below are some of the prominent B2B platforms in Switzerland along with their respective websites:
1. Kompass Switzerland (https://ch.kompass.com/): Kompass provides a comprehensive database of Swiss businesses across various industries, making it easier for B2B companies to connect and do business.
2. Alibaba Switzerland (https://www.alibaba.com/countrysearch/CH/switzerland.html): Alibaba offers a global trade platform connecting buyers and suppliers worldwide, including many Swiss businesses.
3. Europages Switzerland (https://www.europages.co.uk/companies/Switzerland.html): Europages is a popular B2B platform that allows users to find suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors in Switzerland.
4. TradeKey Switzerland (https://swiss.tradekey.com/): TradeKey enables businesses to connect with buyers and sellers in the Swiss market, providing opportunities for international trade.
5. Global Sources Switzerland (https://www.globalsources.com/SWITZERLAND/hot-products.html): Global Sources is an established cross-border B2B e-commerce platform offering products from Swiss suppliers across different sectors.
6. Business Directory - Switzerland (https://bizpages.org/countries--CH--Switzerland#toplistings): Bizpages.org provides an extensive directory of Swiss companies sorted by industry category, facilitating B2B connections efficiently.
7. Thomasnet - Switzerland Suppliers Directory (https://www.thomasnet.com/products/suppliers-countries.html?navtype=geo&country=006&fname=Switzerland+%28CHE%29&altid=&covenum=-1&rlid=1996358-2740819-27838-0&pagecontent=&searchname=null&sflag=E&sort_para=subclassification&sfield=subclassification"): Thomasnet offers a comprehensive directory of verified Swiss suppliers classified by industry segment.
These B2B platforms provide a wide range of opportunities for businesses to connect, trade, and collaborate effectively across various industries in Switzerland. It is recommended to explore these platforms and evaluate which best suits your specific B2B needs.