A Longstanding Partnership
The bilateral relationship between Switzerland and Japan is one of mutual respect, shared values, and deep-rooted cooperation. The two nations established official ties over 160 years ago, marking one of the earliest instances of Swiss engagement with Asia. Switzerland’s first official trade delegation arrived in Japan in 1863, led by Councillor and President of the Union Horlogère Suisse, Aimé Humbert (1819–1900). This mission resulted in the signing of the Treaty of Friendship and Commerce between the Swiss Federal Government and the Japanese Shogunate on February 6, 1864.
This treaty laid the foundation for a partnership grounded in trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange—principles that continue to define the relationship today.
Strong Diplomatic Relations
Switzerland and Japan maintain excellent relations at the highest political levels. Japan holds priority status in Switzerland’s foreign policy, as reflected in its inclusion in the 2025–2028 Asia G20 Strategy. In August 2024, the two countries celebrated the 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations, highlighted by the official visit of Swiss President Viola Amherd to Japan.
Since 2009, both countries have engaged in regular political dialogue to promote cooperation in areas such as economic development, scientific research, and multilateral diplomacy. Their collaboration extends to the global stage: Switzerland and Japan often adopt similar positions on issues like international cooperation, peace policy, and nuclear disarmament. Both nations also served as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council in 2023 and 2024.
Economic Relations and Free Trade
Economic cooperation is a cornerstone of the Swiss Japanese partnership. Japan ranks as Switzerland’s third-largest trading partner in Asia, after China (including Hong Kong) and India, and is a priority country for export promotion.
A major milestone was reached with the signing of the Agreement on Free Trade and Economic Partnership (FTEPA), which came into force on September 1, 2009. The FTEPA—Japan’s first such agreement with a European country—created a comprehensive economic partnership covering trade in goods and services, investment, intellectual property, and electronic commerce. It also introduced measures to facilitate customs procedures and reduce non-tariff barriers.
In 2023, bilateral trade reached a total volume of CHF 14.5 billion. Swiss exports to Japan totalled CHF 7.6 billion, while imports from Japan amounted to CHF 6.9 billion. Although exports decreased by 18.1%, imports rose by 20.9%, leaving Switzerland with a trade surplus of CHF 0.7 billion. Investment links remain strong, with Swiss companies investing USD 14.7 billion in Japan—making Switzerland the fourth-largest European investor—while Japanese firms invested USD 41.8 billion in Switzerland.
Looking ahead, growth prospects are promising in sectors such as machinery, chemicals, finance, and green technologies. Switzerland is also positioning itself as a key innovation partner through participation in the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, under the theme “Vitality. Swiss – Augmented Human, Life, and Planet.”
Cooperation in Science, Education, and Innovation
Science and education form another pillar of Swiss Japanese relations. An agreement on cooperation in science and technology, signed in 2007, established a framework for regular dialogue and joint research initiatives. A bilateral committee meets regularly to discuss topics of shared interest, including sustainability, digital transformation, and advanced materials.
The Science and Technology Office at the Swiss Embassy in Tokyo and Swissnex Osaka—opened in 2023—play key roles in fostering collaboration between universities, startups, and research institutions. These initiatives help strengthen networks between the Swiss innovation ecosystem and Japan’s advanced research landscape.
Cultural Exchange and People-to-People Ties
Cultural diplomacy has been a vibrant component of Swiss Japanese relations. In 2024, to celebrate 160 years of friendship, numerous cultural events and exhibitions were held across Japan. The Swiss Embassy launched the Vitality. Swiss program—a dialogue platform promoting exchange between the two societies and engaging the public in themes of sustainability, health, and innovation.
Switzerland’s participation in Expo 2025 Osaka will further reinforce cultural and creative ties, showcasing Swiss values of openness, precision, and sustainability. As of the end of 2024, approximately 1,996 Swiss nationals were living in Japan, contributing to the social and cultural diversity of both countries.
A Future Built on Shared Values
From the historic treaty of 1864 to today’s dynamic cooperation in trade, science, and culture, Swiss Japanese relations exemplify the enduring strength of diplomacy based on trust and shared ideals. Both nations continue to collaborate as “like-minded partners”, committed to international stability, innovation, and sustainable development. As Switzerland and Japan look toward the future, their partnership stands as a model of constructive and forward-looking bilateral engagement.
References
Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan. (2025). Swiss-Japanese Relations. Retrieved from Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan: https://sccij.jp/about-sccij/switzerland-and-japan/
Swiss Confederation. (2025). Bilateral relations Switzerland–Japan. Retrieved from Swiss Confederation: https://www.eda.admin.ch/countries/japan/en/home/switzerland-and/bilateral-relations.html
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