Topics
The Federal Customs and Border Security Office ensures security and the smooth flow of goods. We implement free trade agreements, abolish industrial tariffs and drive forward digitalisation with ‘DaziT’. We provide foreign trade statistics, collect customs duties and excise taxes, test precious metals and carry out missions abroad. We also enforce the Alcohol Act and offer clear channels for complaints.
Free trade agreements, origin
Within the framework of free trade agreements, Switzerland grants preferential treatments applicable only to goods complying with origin provisions. This system, including the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and non-preferential origins, is overseen by the Directorate General of Customs.
Import duties on goods from the United States
The Ordinance on Import Duties on Goods from the United States (SR 632.533.61) enters into force retroactively on 14 November 2025. This provides for a reduction in import duties on goods originating in the United States within the scope of Annexes 1 and 2 of the Ordinance.
DaziT transformation programme
Lean processes, digital resources, agile organisation, increased mobility, a new professional profile – the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS) is continuing to evolve in numerous projects.
Foreign trade statistics
We prepare, manage and publish the Swiss foreign trade statistics. In this section, you will find numerous tables and charts, and information on Swiss imports and exports. The data can be consulted by country, item and mode of transport, etc.
Taxes and duties overview
On behalf of Switzerland, we collect taxes and other duties on goods in cross-border traffic, such as customs duties and value added tax. Together, these account for around one third of all Swiss government revenue each year.
Precious Metal Control
The Prezius digital application for Precious Metals Control allows business partners to create and track their official stamping orders via the ePortal.
International Assignments FOCBS
The foreign assignments by the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security support Switzerland’s foreign, peace, security, and trade policies. Employees undertake diverse tasks abroad, from Schengen border protection to aviation security.
Alcohol
Here you will find comprehensive information on the subject of alcohol: domestic production, important statistics, rules for sale and serving, as well as measures for prevention, youth protection and advertising. You will also find information on taxes, import and export, handling ethanol and the spirits register.
Appeals
The page provides key information on lodging appeals against decisions of the Federal Office of Customs and Border Security (FOCB), especially regarding tax assessment decisions. It explains where, how, and in what form an appeal can be submitted, the deadlines to respect, and the potential costs involved.