Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin signs digital economy agreement with Singapore
Bern, 25.09.2025 — On 25 September, Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, joined by representatives from the other EFTA member states – Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway – signed a digital economy agreement in Bern with Singapore’s Minister for Trade Relations, Grace Fu. This milestone builds on Switzerland’s successful strategy to strengthen digital trade and diversify its international trade partnerships. The agreement will further improve the framework conditions for trade between Switzerland and this key Asian partner.
As part of its foreign trade strategy, Switzerland remains committed to upholding international rules governing digital trade. To date, it has included digital trade provisions in free trade agreements with nine partners, most recently Chile. The new agreement will be integrated into the existing EFTA–Singapore Free Trade Agreement, which has been in force since 2003, thereby establishing a comprehensive framework for trade with Singapore.
The digital economy agreement facilitates the exchange of goods and services and enhances legal certainty. It guarantees the free flow of data in accordance with personal data protection regulations, prohibits customs duties on electronic transmissions and ensures the protection of source codes in computer programs. It also seeks to bolster consumer confidence in digital trade by requiring the parties to maintain – or, where necessary, introduce – regulations to safeguard consumers and prevent unsolicited communications (spam).
Singapore is a key partner for Switzerland not only in financial services, but also in logistics, ICT services and a broad range of other sectors. In 2024, bilateral trade in goods and services totalled approximately CHF 5 billion.
The Federal Council will launch a consultation on the digital economy agreement in spring 2026, following which it will submit the agreement to Parliament for approval. The new agreement will enter into force once all contracting parties have completed their internal ratification procedures.