Why TEPA is the Game Changer for Swiss Businesses in India

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India: A Land of Opportunity for Swiss Entrepreneurs

Imagine a market of 1.4 billion people, a booming middle class of 400 million consumers, and an economy set to be the world’s third-largest by 2027. Now imagine gaining a competitive edge over the EU, unlocking tariff-free access to one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. This is exactly what the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between Switzerland and India offers.

Signed on March 10, 2024, TEPA is India’s first-ever Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with a European trading bloc, opening up new frontiers for Swiss businesses across industries. Whether you’re a startup looking to scale internationally or an established Swiss brand seeking new revenue streams, India just became a lot more accessible.

Why Should Swiss Businesses Care About TEPA?

TEPA is a breakthrough for Switzerland, offering favorable trade conditions, investment incentives, and stronger intellectual property protections. Here’s what makes it a game changer:

🔹 Massive Cost Savings on Exports:

• 82.7% of India’s tariff lines covering 95.3% of Swiss exports will receive concessions.
• 85% of customs duties on Swiss exports will be abolished within the next 10 years.
• Watches alone will see CHF 27 million (INR 2,660 crore) in annual savings due to tariff eliminations.

🔹 Swiss Exports to Soar:

• Switzerland exported CHF 17 billion (INR 1.67 lakh crore) worth of goods to India in 2023, but with TEPA, this number is expected to skyrocket.
• Key sectors—machinery, pharmaceuticals, watches, MedTech, and food products—will benefit the most.

🔹 Unmatched Market Access:

• India’s consumer market is projected to be worth CHF 5.9 trillion (INR 600 lakh crore) by 2030.
• Swiss startups, SMEs, and major brands now have the advantage of reduced trade barriers and legal clarity in doing business with India.

🔹 Investment Boom:

• TEPA aims to attract USD 100 billion (CHF 88 billion / INR 8.4 lakh crore) in Swiss FDI into India over the next 15 years.
• This will generate over 1 million jobs, strengthening Swiss-Indian business ties.

🔹 Innovation and Collaboration:

• Swiss AI, blockchain, and digital tech startups can partner with India’s thriving IT and fintech hubs.
• Luxury brands, MedTech companies, and sustainable businesses can tap into India’s rising demand for high-quality Swiss goods.

Industries Poised for Growth: Who Wins with TEPA?

✅ For Swiss Startups & Entrepreneurs:

• Tech & AI: India is the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, with a thriving AI and blockchain sector.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs): India’s EV industry is set to grow at 66% CAGR until 2029, demanding cutting-edge Swiss battery and charging solutions.
• E-commerce: Swiss startups can sell directly to Indian consumers via Amazon India and Flipkart, eliminating import restrictions.

✅ For Established Swiss Brands:

• Luxury & Watches: With a 7.8% CAGR in the Indian luxury market, demand for Swiss watches, jewelry, and fashion is exploding.
• Food & Beverage: India’s growing premium F&B segment opens doors for Swiss chocolates, coffee, and fine foods.
• MedTech & Pharma: With TEPA’s stronger patent protections and 10% duty reductions on medicines, Swiss companies can lead in India’s CHF 47 billion (INR 4.5 lakh crore) pharma market.

Why This Matters for Switzerland’s Future

Switzerland relies on exports for 66% of its GDP. As traditional European markets mature, expanding into high-growth regions like India isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity.

With TEPA, Switzerland gets:

• A strategic edge over EU businesses (which don’t yet have an FTA with India).
• Stronger protection for Swiss brands, trademarks, and intellectual property.
• Access to one of the world’s most promising economies—with a young, digitally savvy population ready for Swiss innovation.

Ready to Make India Your Next Big Market? Here’s How to Start:

✔ Identify your sector’s tariff benefits under TEPA—where can you save the most?✔ Find local partners & distributors to ease market entry.✔ Join trade fairs & networking events to connect with key Indian buyers and investors.✔ Develop a pricing & branding strategy to stand out in India’s fast-paced business environment.

🚀 Don’t wait—early movers will benefit the most. The future of Swiss business is global, and TEPA is your gateway to success in India.

👉 Visit tepa.swiss to explore how you can make the most of this opportunity!

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