2011: strong Swiss franc, weak foreign trade

Bern, 02.02.2012 - The strong Swiss franc and the gloomy outlook for the global economy left their mark on Swiss foreign trade as well. Although exports rose by at total of 2% in 2011 (2010: +7%), most sectors experienced a decline in export activity. At the same time, exporters were forced to make significant price concessions. While demand from Asia flourished, it stagnated in Europe. Imports remained flat. The difference between exports and imports pushed Switzerland's trade surplus to a new record high.