The world's most competitive economy

Switzerland has become a very attractive location for foreign Multi-National Companies (MNCs) international operations and Swiss companies are gaining international recognition and are very active. Today, there are more than 10,000 foreign and Swiss MNCs conducting business from Switzerland.
Investments of foreign MNCs in Switzerland have helped ensure that Switzerland has foreign direct-investment inflows per capita that rank it number eight in the world, and Swiss MNCs have helped ensure that Switzerland's exports per capita rank it eighth highest in the world.
Switzerland is number one in the Global Competitiveness Report 2006, reflecting the country's sound institutional environment, excellent infrastructure, efficient markets and high levels of technological innovation.
The country has a well developed infrastructure for scientific research, companies spend generously on R&D, intellectual property protection is strong and the country's public institutions are transparent and stable.
PREFERRED BUSINESS LOCATION: Switzerland is the top choice for establishing, developing or restructuring a European or International Head Office. In fact as a first preference, Switzerland had more than a 2:1 ratio over any other country in Europe. This is mainly due to its ideal geographic location which covers the European market.
In this respect, the bilateral agreements between Switzerland and the European Union (EU) are an important factor in the continuing expansion of the trade and investment relationship between them. Other important factors that encourage the establishment of headquarters include the long-term, stable decision-making fundamentals, liberal legislation, protection of free competition and co-operative governmental authorities.
In terms of workforce motivation, Switzerland ranks first among European economies. The high quality of the Swiss education system is the foundation of the competence and know-how found in the labour market, and provides a strong incentive for foreign managers and their families to relocate to Switzerland. The quality of research programs is equally high.
The country ranks as one of the world's most important technology locations. The Swiss market includes numerous leading domestic companies and well-known foreign companies that have chosen Switzerland as their location for research, development and production activities.
Switzerland's International Banking System, the SWX Stock Exchange and the multilingual capabilities of its professionals and academics all contribute to the strength of the international environment.
Switzerland is a business location where you will find ideal operating conditions for your company. Liberal and business-friendly legislation, political and financial stability, first-class infrastructure, helpful and competent government representatives, as well as a highly motivated and well-trained workforce ensuring professionalism in all fields.