Webinar: Export control

Understanding export controls: What Swiss and Liechtenstein SMEs need to know

Geopolitical developments are making export controls increasingly complex. This webinar provides clarity for companies from Switzerland and Liechtenstein that export industrial goods.

Export control: not a ban, but a legal obligation

The aim of export control is to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction while allowing legitimate trade in dual-use goods and conventional weapons. Swiss regulations are based on international treaties and export control regimes such as the Nuclear Suppliers Group and the Wassenaar Arrangement. Due to geopolitical tensions and blockades in multilateral platforms, Switzerland has also been taking on controls introduced by important trading partners such as the EU since May 2025 - for example, for advanced semiconductors or quantum computers.

Export control is not an export ban. There are licensing requirements, but also simplifications such as general export licences.
- Bettino Andrea Feltscher, Deputy Head of Export Control Industrial Goods ESIG, State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO)

Classification, compliance and the responsibility of exporters

The obligation to classify goods lies with the exporting company - this applies not only to physical goods, but also to software and technologies. Tools such as SECO's conversion index provide support in this regard. Companies that export listed goods must have an internal compliance programme (ICP) in place. Responsibility lies with senior management - including training requirements and implementation monitoring.

Senior management is responsible for implementing an ICP - including training and signature by authorised signatories.
- Bettino Andrea Feltscher, Deputy Head of Export Control Industrial Goods ESIG, State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO)

Sanctions, circumvention risks and best practices

Practical examples show that components from Swiss companies have been found in Russian or Iranian weapon systems - despite being intended for civilian use. End-use monitoring is therefore crucial. The principle of 'know your customer' applies in particular to indirect exports via distributors. Unusual transport routes, missing information on use or newly founded companies are warning signs. SECO provides specific information sheets for critical goods such as machine tools.

Watch the full webinar recording now to gain practical insights into goods classification, legal obligations and risk avoidance.

ExportHelp Webinar: Export Control

Downloads