Swiss government pushes for looser arms export rules amid industry pressure

Switzerland currently bans the export of war material to nations involved in internal or international conflicts. The Federal Council argues that tighter rules have hurt the domestic arms sector since the war in Ukraine began. A parliamentary majority is backing a revision of the War Material Act to expand the Council's discretion over exports and re-exports, including the ability to require that weapons remain in the purchasing state under security or neutrality considerations.

In extraordinary situations, the Council could deviate from existing approval criteria while respecting international obligations. The government stresses that any new regime will be applied in strict compliance with Swiss neutrality and international law, a point reiterated by President and Economy Minister Guy Parmelin in parliament.