Export economy Swiss export SMEs remain cautiously optimistic
Export-oriented Swiss SMEs are cautiously optimistic about the future. More than half of the companies expect exports to increase in the current semester.
27.01.2026, 09:29
SDA
At 63.5 points, export sentiment among Swiss SMEs is showing signs of recovery and is once again clearly above the growth threshold of 50 points compared to six months ago, according to a survey published on Tuesday by Switzerland Global Enterprise, the Swiss organization for export promotion and business location promotion. At the end of June 2025, the index stood at 52.3 points according to the figures at the time.
Specifically, 57% of companies expect exports to increase in the first half of 2026. 27% expect stagnation and 16% anticipate a decrease. And for 2026 as a whole, the assessment is even slightly more positive.
The reduction in US tariffs from 39% to 15% in mid-November was the main reason for increased confidence and relief. Despite the slightly better mood, however, a sustained trend reversal towards sustainable growth cannot yet be deduced. This is because four out of five of the companies surveyed expect only minor changes to their export volume.
According to the industry association, nine out of ten export companies have been affected by the tariffs and three out of five companies have had to make adjustments. This was done, for example, by adjusting margins or prices.
The SME Export Sentiment Index from Switzerland Global Enterprise is based on a semi-annual survey of around 200 companies.
