Geopolitical and economic insecurity continues and Switzerland is directly affected. It is precisely in these moments that we see what really matters: stability and an efficient and resilient economy as the basis of our prosperity, two success factors subject to considerable pressure. Switzerland should not continue on its way as if nothing had happened, it must act, there is an emergency. Because, in the absence of measures, the economic place will see its stability and its competitiveness weaken. In order for the state to remain capable of acting, also in a difficult period, it is essential that the “27 reduction program” of the Federal Council and its expenditure focused measures be implemented globally. This is the only way to respect debt brake and create a room for maneuver to invest in defense capacities. Consequently, the economy firmly supports the “PA27”.
A measure of measures is necessary to strengthen the economic place
Switzerland is under pressure and many countries reinforce the attractiveness of their economic place. It is decisive that the Swiss political world shows its determination and takes measures. The latter must give up introducing regulatory charges and additional taxes. “A regulatory moratorium is essential,” said Christoph Mäder, president of Economiesuisse, during the common press conference of the economy. “In addition, a train of measures must be developed to strengthen the Swiss economic place”, according to Christoph Mäder. The economy therefore requests the establishment of a group of experts, made up of representatives of scientific and economic circles as well as the Confederation, responsible for developing a train of transversal measures.
Avoid a new increase in taxes and taxes
It is also important to pay particular attention to social providents, the biggest spending post in the Confederation. In this regard, you should know that AVS expenses increase sharply, in particular due to the demographic evolution and the introduction of the 13th rent. In this context, it is decisive to ensure long -term financing of social insurance without further adding work. The cost of labor is an essential factor, with a stable framework, for business investments. The Swiss employers’ Union therefore welcomes the project aimed at dissociating the financing of the AVS from the Confederation’s budget-without the increases in wage charges. “There is a clear commitment against increases in wage contributions in favor of AVS,” said Severin Moser, president of the Swiss employers’ union.
Stefan Mäder, president of the Swiss Insurance Association, also firmly opposes tax increases. “Confederation has a problem of expenses, no revenue. The planned increase in the taxation of provident capital would affect whole sections of the population and must be clearly rejected, “said Stefan Mäder. According to him, “the system of the three pillars, which constitutes one of the main achievements of our country, would be weakened”. From the point of view of the insured in particular, to change the rules of the game during the game would be contrary to legal certainty. This would weaken confidence in the action of the State and individual liability in terms of foresight. The economy also recommends not to question the reliability of the three pillars system, as the funds are invested in the long term strengthen Swiss economic space.
Delete obstacles to trade
The international trade conflict weighs on Swiss exports, businesses and investments. The integration of Switzerland into the group of fifteen trading partners with which the United States is looking for a priority agreement on customs duties is a first step towards the resolution of the conflict. However, close diplomatic relations with the United States remain essential. At the same time, Switzerland, as an open economy, needs the best possible access to markets around the world. “The free trade agreements are still gaining importance. Concretely, I think of the rapid entry into force of the agreement with India, the conclusion of agreements with Mercosur and Vietnam as well as the update of those with China and Mexico, “said Martin Hirzel, president of Swissmem. Referendums would strongly affect the export industry. Finally, bilaterals III must be carried out.
Call to act for the Swiss economic place
Concrete proposals for a train of measures aimed at strengthening the Swiss economic place were presented at the press conference. The document is here.
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Press kit
For any question:
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Silvan Lipp, communications manager of Economiesuisse, +41 44 421 35 57, [email protected]
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Jonas Lehner, deputy manager of the communication Sector of the Swiss Employers’ Union, +41 79 627 15 19, [email protected]
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Noah Blancpain, head of communication and public affairs of Swissmem, +41 78 748 61 63, [email protected]
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Jan Mühlethaler, Director of the Public Affairs and Communication Division of the Swiss Insurance Association, [email protected]
