Dear SCCC members

Once again, the end of the year approaches quickly, and we are already making plans for 2020. But let us first review the past 11 months.

In 2019, the SCCC was involved in a lot of activities that increased the economic ties between Switzerland and China. The SCCC roadshow «China and Europe – The role of Switzerland», just concluded after stops in Shanghai, Beijing and Shenzhen, attracted the interest of more than 1000 Chinese companies. The Chinese economy is continuing to change, and it is now clearly diversifying away from a US market focus.  Chinese companies seek suppliers, customers and markets that are more resilient and more predictable. The belt and road initiative(s) have reached levels where Chinese companies participate in new and developing trade channels and market places, such as the Caspian Region. This provides new opportunities for Swiss companies to work with Chinese partners in markets outside of China, leveraging the expertise and trust gained in the domestic China market.

The Swiss economy benefits from these developments. However, challenges remain: the discussions on the extension of the Free Trade Agreement make little progress, the new Cyber Security Law creates new trade barriers in a digitalized world, and the Corporate Social Credit System holds potential for misunderstandings and misuse.

2020 will be the year of two major anniversaries: On September 14, Switzerland and China will celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, and on September 02, the SCCC, founded by Uli Sigg in 1980, will celebrate its 40th birthday. You will hear about the events in my January newsletter, please stay tuned.

You have received the invoice for the annual SCCC fee by mail. As agreed at the AGM, we have increased the fees for companies; for individuals and students they remain unchanged. This was the first increase in more than 10 years. Our members are expecting more services and at a higher level of quality, the chamber has to be more digital and needs to respond faster. Further, the chamber organizes more than 40 events per year, each of which is important and has undergone a review process. Our costs have risen as we need to adapt and transform our business processes, and low cost volunteer work is less and less available. We are very grateful for your support and continue to strive to provide you with the best possible service.

Dear SCCC members, I wish you happy and rewarding year-end festivities and a prosperous start of the new year.

With best regards,

Felix Sutter

Jī bùkě shī, shí bù zàilái