State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO)

The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) is the Swiss federal government’s centre of expertise for economic policy. It works to ensure sustainable economic growth, high employment and fair working conditions by helping to shape favourable regulatory, economic and foreign economic policy framework conditions. As a service provider for businesses, policymakers and society, SECO contributes to maintaining Switzerland’s prosperity and competitiveness.

SECO monitors and analyses national and international economic developments and provides evidence-based foundations for economic policy decisions. Its activities cover a broad range of areas, including labour market policy and working conditions, economic growth and competition, regulatory policy, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, tourism, and the promotion of Switzerland as a business location. It also supports businesses in accessing international markets and helps create an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship.

As a highly open and globally integrated economy, Switzerland depends on reliable access to international markets, strong economic relations and a stable, rules-based international economic system. SECO plays a central role in shaping Switzerland’s foreign economic policy. It represents Swiss economic interests internationally, negotiates free trade agreements and works through organisations such as the WTO and OECD to promote open, fair and sustainable trade. Its work also encompasses international investment, responsible business conduct, international labour standards, export controls and sanctions, as well as bilateral economic relations.