Switzerland is stepping up efforts to strengthen trade and investment ties with ASEAN, seeking to benefit from the region’s rapid growth and strategic position. The country relies heavily on international trade and remains committed to the multilateral trading system under the World Trade Organisation (WTO), said Swiss State Secretary for Economic Affairs, Helene Budliger Artieda.
She noted that Switzerland has been active at the multilateral level and has recently secured bilateral trade agreements with ASEAN members through the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).
“At the regional level, we are keen to diversify our trade and investment relations, including with ASEAN,” she said in an exclusive interview with Bernama on the sidelines of the 57th ASEAN Economic Ministers’ (AEM) Meeting and related events at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).
According to Artieda, Switzerland is considering closer engagement with major regional trade frameworks such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
“Both RCEP and CPTPP have now been actively suggested to us. We will give these proposals due consideration. In Switzerland, we have a direct democracy, so we would need to consult our parliament and also our cantons to determine the level of interest,” she said, adding that discussions on the CPTPP are slightly more advanced.
Speaking during the 57th ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre, Artieda stressed the importance of enhancing Swiss-ASEAN trade ties amid global trade uncertainties.
Swiss companies view ASEAN as a strategic alternative in a world facing rising geopolitical fragmentation. ASEAN’s growth as a global manufacturing hub and its role in anchoring international supply chains make it an attractive partner for Swiss businesses.
Artieda pointed out that ASEAN matters greatly to Switzerland, with its large market of around 680 million people and a youthful population driving strong economic growth. The region’s ability to position itself between major geopolitical powers further adds to its appeal.
Some ASEAN countries have already become preferred investment destinations for Swiss firms, drawn by the region’s manufacturing potential and promising consumer base. Early engagement with ASEAN’s young population is seen as a path to building long-term loyalty to Swiss products and services.
Bernama
