The UK-Switzerland Enhanced Free Trade Agreement has moved a step closer, following the conclusion of negotiations between the two countries.
For businesses trading with Switzerland, however, nothing changes just yet. The enhanced agreement is not yet in force and traders should continue using the existing UK-Switzerland arrangements until the new agreement has completed the necessary legal and ratification stages.
Where are we now?
With negotiations concluded, the agreement now moves through the remaining legal and domestic approval processes before it can take effect.
This distinction matters. Businesses should not start using the new origin procedures or alter their current proof-of-origin processes at this stage.
The period before implementation does, however, give businesses time to understand what has been agreed and consider where the changes could affect their trade with Switzerland.
What will change for goods traders?
Around 99% of existing UK-Swiss goods trade already benefits from tariff-free access, so this agreement is not simply about removing tariffs. It also addresses how businesses demonstrate origin and how goods move through customs.
Once the agreement enters into force, UK exporters will be able to self-certify origin using an origin declaration, without needing approved exporter status. Importers will have another option through ‘importer’s knowledge’, allowing them to claim preferential tariff treatment based on evidence that the goods meet the relevant origin requirements.
Existing product-specific rules of origin are broadly retained, alongside updated cumulation arrangements. Manufacturers should pay particular attention to the final origin protocol and product-specific rules when these become available.
Customs provisions are also intended to make border processes more digital and predictable. These include electronic submission of customs information, simpler data and documentation requirements, advance rulings on classification, valuation and origin, and commitments around the release of goods.
The agreement goes beyond goods
There is plenty here for services businesses too. The agreement covers professional services, digital trade, investment and business mobility.
It secures arrangements for UK professionals to provide services in Switzerland for up to 90 days per calendar year without a work permit, subject to the relevant conditions. Digital trade provisions address areas including cross-border data flows, electronic contracts and electronic invoicing.
For the Thames Valley, those provisions are particularly relevant given the region’s concentration of technology, life sciences, advanced manufacturing and professional services businesses.
What should businesses do now?
This is a time to prepare, rather than change established procedures.
Businesses trading with Switzerland should continue using the current arrangements and monitor the publication of the final legal text and implementation guidance. It is also worth reviewing existing Swiss trade flows now, particularly where rules of origin, customs processes or services activity are involved.
TVCC International Trade & Customs can support businesses with rules of origin, tariff classification, customs procedures and international trade documentation. As further details become available, the Chamber will continue to update members on what they mean in practice.
Please note: This update reflects information available following the conclusion of negotiations. The agreement has not yet entered into force and details may be subject to change as the legal text is finalised and the UK and Switzerland complete their respective approval and ratification processes. Businesses should continue to follow the current UK-Switzerland trading arrangements until official confirmation that the enhanced FTA has entered into force.
For support, contact the International Trade team on 01753 870560 or email trade@tvchamber.co.uk.
