Context – Debate with Tomáš Podivínský, Czech Ambassador to Switzerland

Members of the HST – Chamber of Commerce Switzerland–Czech Republic, as part of the Context program, held a discussion on 12 January 2026 with Ambassador Tomáš Podivínský. Their main focus was on the changing parameters of the Swiss economic environment in connection with the adjustment of U.S. tariff rates—from 39% to 15%—and on the opportunities this situation may create for Czech–Swiss bilateral trade relations, particularly in light of Switzerland’s need to diversify its existing export flows.

Part of the discussion was also devoted to mutual strengths in manufacturing processes, services, and business relations, and especially to the advantages that Czech companies can leverage on the Swiss market. Entrepreneurs were also interested in legislation, which many perceive as highly detailed and burdensome. Even unintentional omissions or failure to comply with certain obligations in the strictly prescribed manner can result in significant fines from Swiss authorities.

The participants also spoke about the Swiss education system and the vocational preparation of young people for their professional careers, as well as the opportunities for their career and professional development in manufacturing, business, and at universities.

Ambassador Podivínský also spoke in detail about the possibilities offered by the Czech Embassy in Bern to support Czech companies on the Swiss market, particularly various types of presentations hosted at the embassy, informational support, and specific projects within the framework of Economic and Commercial Diplomacy Projects (PROPED) or business missions. He also emphasized the importance of personal meetings and practical presentations in Switzerland, as well as strong language skills, punctuality, and strict adherence to deadlines, which are considered absolutely essential and without which doing business in Switzerland is nearly impossible.

At the end of the meeting, individual consultations were held regarding Swiss certification requirements and the conditions for introducing specific products and services to the demanding Swiss market. These included recommendations from representatives of companies already active in Switzerland, who also shared their experience with the support provided by the Czech Embassy in Bern.