In today’s fast changing world, entrepreneurs have become instrumental to driving growth, innovation and employment. For small nations such as Switzerland and Singapore, an open and rules-based market is essential to ensure a well-functioning economy. To this end, Switzerland is committed to maintaining and further developing successful economic relations with Singapore.
The Swiss-Singapore trade relations have a long history dating back to the 1860s, when Swiss trading houses began to establish branches on the island. Following the signing of the free trade agreement between Singapore and the European Free Trade Association in 2003, trade between the two countries has grown significantly.
Today, many Swiss companies, from small- and medium sized enterprises to multinationals, leverage Singapore’s position as a hub into Southeast Asia and the Asia Pacific. Most major Swiss manufacturers and service providers, particularly in the finance and insurance sectors, with worldwide activities are present in the lion city. The signing of the DEA between Singapore and the EFTA in 2025 underlines the importance of digitalization and new technologies for our economies. These developments are very welcome and contribute to the deepening of Swiss-Singapore ties.
Singapore is Switzerland’s most important trading partner in Southeast Asia - underscoring the depth of the relationship. Singapore ranks as the 15th largest export destination of Swiss goods worldwide, amounting to SGD 9 billion in 2025. Switzerland is also the 14th largest foreign investor in Singapore. With a capital stock of over SGD 92 billion in 2024, the city-state is the most significant destination for Swiss direct investments in Asia. Conversely, Switzerland ranks as Singapore's 8th largest trading partner for services exports.
Yet, there is still much potential for strengthening the links between the Swiss and Singapore economies. SwissCham Singapore plays a significant role in fostering such connections – in business and beyond. As the Swiss Ambassador to Singapore, I encourage Swiss and local companies as well as individuals to join SwissCham and benefit from their activities in networking, information exchange and the championing of Swiss values and quality through business. I am convinced that a strong trade and investment partnership between Switzerland and Singapore favours innovation, advances sustainable economic development, increases mutual understanding and hence, contributes to the well-being of our societies.
Alexandra Baumann
Ambassador of Switzerland
