Data privacy and AI approach make Switzerland R&D magnet
Switzerland Global Enterprise (S-GE), Switzerland’s official trade and investment promotion agency, is intensifying efforts to position the country as a global innovation hub.
In an interview with Real FDI editor Courtney Fingar, chief investment promotion officer Patrik Wermelinger, explained that the agency’s latest strategy focuses on attracting international companies in five key sectors where Switzerland already leads: healthcare, digital technologies, food and elemental industries and finance.
These fields, he explained, align with Switzerland’s strengths in ethical, secure and advanced technological practices, particularly within sectors like artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality and data-driven solutions. “We’re seeing growing interest in Switzerland as a base for global R&D, particularly in digital worlds —how AI, virtual reality and data integration can solve global challenges,” he said.
With advancements in AI, virtual reality, and data privacy, Wermelinger noted, Switzerland offers a unique, “sandbox” environment for testing cutting-edge technologies with limited regulatory constraints. Switzerland has a strong, tech-neutral approach to data privacy, making it an attractive destination for international companies looking to conduct research and development in AI and other digital technologies.
Highlighting Switzerland’s light-touch regulatory environment as a competitive advantage, he emphasised, “We enable growth and market solutions for companies without the over-regulation seen in other jurisdictions.”
Wermelinger emphasised the importance of Switzerland’s modern infrastructure — ranging from efficient transport systems to secure data networks — in supporting innovative companies. These facilities allow global firms to access science hubs, clients and transportation networks within minutes.
“Our reliable, connected real estate and transport systems allow talent to seamlessly integrate work and life, while providing proximity to clients, universities, and natural spaces,” he added.
