OECD analysis of Switzerland’s economic policy: Switzerland is well positioned – reforms needed to ensure competitiveness
Bern, 15.09.2026 — The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) published its report on Switzerland’s economic policy on 15 September. The OECD commends Switzerland’s economic policy approach. In light of a wide range of challenges, the report also identifies the need for action to safeguard Switzerland’s competitiveness and innovative capacity over the long term. This includes further reforming the healthcare and pension systems, reducing the administrative burden on businesses, utilising labour potential more effectively and increasing competition.
The OECD highlights the robust performance of the Swiss economy. In its view, stable institutions and prudent economic and fiscal policies – which rest on solid framework conditions and healthy public finances – have helped to safeguard Switzerland’s resilience.
A wide range of challenges
At the same time, the OECD highlights a challenging international environment. Key challenges include the further development of relations with the European Union, as well as trade-related uncertainties regarding major export markets, notably the US. The OECD recommends further expanding economic ties with key trading partners and seeking additional trade partnerships.
According to the OECD, further reforms are needed in the healthcare and pension systems to ensure the long-term sustainability of public finances. In the healthcare sector, it recommends measures to improve efficiency, for example through better coordination in hospital and care planning. With regard to pension provision, it emphasises the importance of sustainable solutions in light of demographic trends.
Measures to boost productivity
To strengthen and broaden the base of productivity growth, the OECD recommends further reducing the administrative burden on businesses, making even better use of labour potential and improving the competitive environment, for example in the energy sector.
The report also analyses climate change adaptation and the housing supply in Switzerland. Regarding climate adaptation, the OECD recommends greater coordination between different levels of government and better incentives for preventive measures. To increase the housing supply, its recommendations include increased densification as well as more efficient and faster permit procedures.
The OECD’s analyses, particularly its findings on boosting productivity growth, will be incorporated into the Federal Council’s work on the growth report that is scheduled for the end of 2027.
Further information on the report can be found on the following OECD web page: https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/oecd-economic-surveys-switzerland-2026_48b03aff-en.html