Domestic production
The Confederation grants the right to manufacture and distil spirits to private enterprises by means of distiller's licences (Art. 3, section 1 of the Alcohol Act, AlcA). These distiller's licences are issued by the Alcohol Sector of the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security FOCBS.
We distinguish between three types of private spirits producer:
Commercial producers
Commercial producers manufacturing over 200 liters of pure alcohol annually require a license and are subject to taxes. Find information and forms related to the commercial production of spirits and ethanol here.
Small producers
Small producers who produce less than 200 litres of pure alcohol annually benefit from tax rebates. Their spirits are manufactured in a contract distillery.
Agricultural producers
This page provides information on the regulations and tax requirements for agricultural production of spirits in Switzerland. Farmers can distill only raw materials they have harvested on their own land and must submit their tax declaration online annually.
Bonded warehouses
A bonded warehouse enables tax-free trading of spirits. Tax becomes payable only upon leaving. Bonded warehouses must meet specific requirements and be approved by the FOCBS.
Producing one’s own brandies
The guide explains how to produce your own spirits in Switzerland, from selecting fruits to fermentation, and finally distillation in licensed distilleries.
Contract distillers
This page provides information on contract distilleries, their legal regulations, and the necessary forms and guidelines for business operation.
Contact Alcohol Sector
Route de la Mandchourie 25
2800 Delémont