Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER
The EAER is where the federal government’s expertise on economic affairs and trade policy is concentrated. You can follow our strategy for employment, growth and prosperity in Switzerland and for securing sustainable development. Furthermore, the EAER combines education, research and innovation – three areas that are crucial for our society and for Switzerland’s economic performance.
Press releases
President Parmelin to attend EPC summit in Ireland
On Thursday 12 November, President Guy Parmelin will attend the ninth summit of the European Political Community (EPC) in Dublin. He will also represent Switzerland as host of the tenth EPC summit, which will be held in Zurich in April 2027.
Consumer sentiment lower than a year ago
In October 2026 the consumer sentiment index stood at –45 points. This is 8 points lower than in October 2025. The following sub-indices are lower than in October 2025: past financial situation, financial outlook and moment to make major purchases. The following sub-index has barely changed compared to October 2025: economic outlook.
Ukraine: Federal Council implements 21st package of sanctions
On 4 November, the Federal Council decided to adopt the measures from the European Union’s 21st package of sanctions against Russia and Belarus. The EAER expanded and updated the sanctions lists relating to Russia and Belarus on 3 November. Switzerland is therefore adopting the amendments made by the EU as part of the 21st package of sanctions and other decisions. The amendments to the sanctions lists will come into effect at 11pm on 4 November, while the sectoral measures will come into force on 5 November.
Sanctions: Ordinance on measures against Nicaragua
On 2 November 2026, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) amended the Annex of the Ordinance on measures against Nicaragua. The entry concerning one individual has been modified. The measures come into force on 3 November 2026 at 11 p.m.
Sanctions: Ordinance on measures against Sudan
On 2 November 2026, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) amended Annex 2 of the Ordinance on measures against Sudan. The entries concerning three individuals have been modified. The measures come into force on 3 November 2026 at 11 p.m.
Keeping fruit from getting “sweaty” during transport: Digital twins for refrigerated trucks
Although fruit and vegetables are transported in refrigerated trucks, the temperature often varies within the load. Pallets that haven’t been pre-cooled sufficiently, unsuitable packaging, or improper stacking can create hot spots within the cargo. Empa researchers have developed a digital twin of a refrigerated truck to optimize transport and better estimate the shelf life of foodstuff.
President of the Swiss Confederation
"Welcome to the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research"
Guy Parmelin,
President of the Swiss Confederation
Agencies
Federal Consumer Affairs Bureau FCAB
Innosuisse - Swiss Innovation Agency
Swiss Federal University for Vocational Education and Training SFIVET
Information Service Center EAER ISCeco
Services
Offices
State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO
State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation SERI
Federal Office for Agriculture FOAG
Federal Office for National Economic Supply FONES
Federal Office for Housing FOH
Federal Office for Civilian Service CIVI
Subscribing to News
Keep track of news from the EAER and its offices and agencies.
By subscribing to news you will receive the latest updates from the EAER.