Health, food law

Foodstuffs and articles of daily use must be safe and protect public health. Legal foundations and checks upon import, transit, and export ensure that requirements are met. The cantons carry out necessary internal inspections. Foodstuffs for private use do not fall within food law.

To protect public health and prevent violations, narcotics are under strict regulations. Customs Offices verify the necessary Swissmedic permits to prevent smuggling and contact the appropriate authorities if a violation occurs.

This page provides information about the strict regulations and monitoring for narcotics and precursor chemicals in Switzerland. Learn about the role of customs authorities in monitoring import, export, and transit, and the necessary permits.

Animals and animal products imported from third countries into Switzerland are subject to border veterinary inspection. These inspections occur upon their initial entry into the joint veterinary area of the EU and Switzerland. In Switzerland, declarations are only accepted at the customs offices at Zurich and Geneva airports.

Laser pointers can cause serious damage to health if used improperly. They are therefore subject to strict legal regulations in Switzerland. The customs authorities support the enforcement of the ban on their import and transit.