The Swiss Made Label: A mark of excellence and an asset for entrepreneurs
For centuries, the Swiss Made label has stood as a global symbol of quality and craftsmanship. Built on Swiss heritage, it is recognized in demanding sectors such as watchmaking, food, and industrial goods. Swiss Made is not just an indication of origin; it is a true guarantee of reliability and excellence.
The heritage of the Swiss Made
The history of the Swiss Made began in the 17th century with Geneva watchmakers adopting rigorous standards to protect their reputation against international competition. Officially regulated by the late 19th century, it became a distinctive mark of Swiss industry. Today, Swiss Made is governed by strict laws ensuring that products bearing this label meet precise standards.
Criteria for the Swiss Made
To claim the Swiss Made, a product must meet specific legal requirements, which vary by sector:
- Watchmaking: The movement must be Swiss, assembled and inspected in Switzerland, and at least 60% of its value must come from Swiss components.
- Food products: 80% of raw materials must come from Switzerland, and essential processing must take place there.
- Industrial products: At least 60% of manufacturing costs must be incurred in Switzerland.
These stringent criteria make the Swiss Made label a quality assurance, ensuring that each product meets consumers’ high expectations.
The legal foundation of the Swiss Made is defined by the Federal Act on the Protection of Trademarks and Indications of Source (TmPA) and its implementing ordinance (OIP). These laws outline the conditions under which a product or service may use the designation “Swiss” or “Swiss Made.”
For watchmaking, specific requirements are detailed in the Ordinance on the Use of the Name “Swiss” for Watches (Swissness Ordinance). This regulation imposes strict standards regarding the place of manufacture, the percentage of Swiss components, and production costs. In force since 2017, these rules aim to protect the label’s reputation from misuse and maintain its credibility in global markets.
The advantages of Swiss Made
The Swiss Made label offers numerous advantages for businesses and consumers:
- International Prestige: Products with the Swiss Made label are globally recognized for their exceptional quality.
- Consumer Trust: The label inspires confidence, reassuring customers about the origin and reliability of products.
- Competitive Differentiation: Swiss Made enables businesses to stand out in saturated markets, enhancing their brand image.
- Attraction of Talent: The prestige of Swiss Made attracts skilled professionals eager to participate in excellence-driven projects.
- Economic Value: Swiss Made products often command higher prices due to their stellar reputation.
Swiss Made and watchmaking: An iconic partnership
The Swiss watchmaking industry is the flagship of the Swiss Made. A watch bearing the Swiss Made label represents the pinnacle of precision, innovation, and durability. This label plays a crucial role in the export of Swiss watches, which account for a significant portion of the Swiss economy.
Entrepreneurship in Switzerland under the Swiss Made
Establishing a business in Switzerland presents a unique opportunity to capitalize on the value of the Swiss Made label. Whether in watchmaking, food, or technology, this label allows entrepreneurs to position themselves in high-quality niche markets. However, navigating the regulations related to Swiss Made can be complex.
RISTER – Fiduciary in Geneva: A Partner for the Swiss Made Label
At RISTER, a fiduciary based in Geneva, we assist entrepreneurs in creating and managing their businesses in Switzerland. Our expertise encompasses all aspects, from compliance with Swiss Made criteria to administrative and tax management. We understand that the Swiss Made label is a powerful driver of success, and we help our clients maximize its potential.
The Swiss Made is a driving force of the Swiss economy and a significant asset for businesses that leverage it. By starting a business in Switzerland, you can access this global recognition while benefiting from a stable and prosperous commercial environment. With the support of partners like RISTER, specialists in Swiss Made, you can transform your entrepreneurial vision into an international success.
