UK food and drink exporters set to benefit from Switzerland trade deal

22 July 2026

 

UK food and drink exporters are set to benefit from new opportunities following the conclusion of negotiations on the enhanced UK–Switzerland Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which includes improved market access for a range of agricultural products and measures to make trade easier and more predictable.

Switzerland is already an important export market for British food and drink, worth around £195 million a year. Once the agreement enters into force, UK producers across a number of sectors are expected to benefit from lower tariffs, improved access and reduced administrative barriers when exporting to Switzerland.

New opportunities for exporters

The agreement includes a number of measures designed to improve market access for UK food and drink businesses.

Key benefits include:

  • Tariff-free access for British lamb within Switzerland's quota system for the first time.
  • A 35% tariff reduction on high-quality UK beef steaks exported under Swiss quotas.
  • Tariffs reduced by up to 50% on selected dairy products, including milk powder, while maintaining existing tariff-free access for cheese.
  • Improved seasonal access for a range of fruit and vegetables, including peas, carrots and broad beans.
  • A 34% tariff reduction for English sparkling wine, giving UK producers Switzerland's best preferential treatment for sparkling wine.

Stronger protection for UK products

The agreement also strengthens protection for UK food and drink products through an expanded system of Geographical Indications (GIs).

Subject to Switzerland completing its domestic procedures, a further 28 UK GIs will be protected, adding to the 66 already recognised under the existing agreement. This will help safeguard the reputation and authenticity of regional products while supporting the businesses and communities behind them.

Simpler trade procedures

Alongside tariff improvements, the agreement introduces a modern Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) chapter aimed at reducing unnecessary barriers to trade.

The new provisions are intended to improve cooperation between the UK and Switzerland, encourage faster information sharing and make it easier to resolve SPS issues affecting agricultural and food exports. This should help provide greater certainty for businesses moving products between the two countries.

What happens next?

Although negotiations have concluded, the agreement is not yet in force. Both the UK and Switzerland must complete their respective domestic ratification procedures before businesses can begin trading under the enhanced agreement. Until then, trade will continue under the existing UK–Switzerland agreement.

Businesses exporting food and drink products to Switzerland should use this time to review how the new agreement could benefit their products and prepare to take advantage of the improved market access once the agreement enters into force.

 

By Carla Assunção, Chamber International

 

We can help businesses understand free trade agreements, Rules of Origin and the documentation needed to claim preferential tariff treatment. Join our Rules of Origin, Trade Agreements and Commodity Codes workshop on 28 July, or enquire about our consultancy services for tailored support.