Switzerland's Potential Change on Arms Re-Export Ban

By Emma Farge

BERN (Reuters) – Switzerland's president expressed support on Monday for revising a ban that restricts the re-export of Swiss-made arms to Ukraine, arguing that the embargo is detrimental to both industry and national security.

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, there have been increasing calls for Switzerland to abandon its long-standing tradition of neutrality. The Swiss parliament has recommended easing arms export regulations, but the government previously upheld its policy.

Viola Amherd, the president and defense minister, emphasized the need for an industry-friendly approach during a press event in Bern. "It becomes difficult because countries like the Netherlands have decided not to buy in Switzerland as it's not free to re-export," she explained. Amherd highlighted the interconnectedness of the arms industry and national security, stating the importance of maintaining technological expertise.

Despite its neutrality, Switzerland ranks as the 14th largest arms supplier globally in 2022, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. Critics argue that its neutral stance has contributed to a decline in Swiss weapons sales in 2023.

Amherd also underscored the need for Switzerland to enhance its security investments in Europe and strengthen ties with NATO partners, noting, "In the last 30 years, Switzerland has not invested enough in defence and we need to catch up."