Switzerland harmonises export controls for dual-use goods, particularly in the field of emerging technologies

On April 2, 2025, the Swiss Federal Council adopted an amendment to the Goods Control Ordinance, introducing new export controls for dual-use goods, particularly in the field of emerging technologies

Intro

• This amendment aims to harmonize Swiss export controls with those of its main trading partners, addressing the challenges posed by ongoing geopolitical tensions.
• The new controls will cover advanced technologies such as
• Quantum computing,
• Artificial intelligence,
• Advanced semiconductor manufacturing, and
• Additive manufacturing.
• These changes are set to take effect on May 1, 2025.
• This move reflects a global trend towards tightening oversight of advanced technologies to balance security concerns with the need to maintain technological competitiveness.

Long read

1. According to a government statement also reported by Reuters, the change is intended to ensure that Swiss export practices remain aligned with international standards while maintaining access to essential technologies for domestic industry and research institutions.
2. Dual-use goods—technologies that can be applied in both civilian and military contexts—have been subject to increased scrutiny over the past year as their strategic importance grows.
3. In quantum computing, such controls typically focus on
1. Quantum processors,
2. Control electronics,
3. Cryogenic systems, and
4. Software or algorithms with potential cryptographic applications.
4. While specific items subject to regulation in Switzerland have not yet been detailed, the government plans to publish an official list.

Global Trend Toward Quantum Export Controls

1. The new measures reflect a broader international trend toward tightening oversight of advanced technologies.
1. https://thequantuminsider.com/2024/09/05/u-s-commerce-department-implements-new-export-controls-on-quantum-computing-and-advanced-technologies/
2. As noted in a previous update from the U.S. Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security, similar controls were introduced in the United States in late 2023 through an interim final rule.
3. That rule placed restrictions on quantum computers, components, and development tools with potential military or national security implications, while creating a license exception for countries implementing equivalent controls.

Responsive Image

1. The BIS framework emphasizes international coordination. Alan Estevez, Under Secretary for BIS, said:-
1. “Aligning our controls on quantum and other advanced technologies makes it significantly more difficult for our adversaries to develop and deploy these technologies in ways that threaten our collective security,”
2. Switzerland’s update also mirrors France’s move in February 2024,
1. When it enacted a national control list based on EU Regulation 2021/821. https://thequantuminsider.com/2024/02/26/france-advances-quantum-technology-export-controls-under-new-eu-regulation-framework/
2. The French framework regulates systems with controlled, functional qubits and associated components, an example of the increasing granularity of export governance over quantum technologies.

Balancing Security with Innovation

1. While some international frameworks, such as the AUKUS alliance between Australia, the U.S., and the U.K., have relaxed export restrictions among trusted partners to accelerate defence-oriented R&D,
1. https://thequantuminsider.com/2024/08/20/updated-aukus-pact-eases-export-controls-on-quantum-among-member-nations/
2. Switzerland’s decision represents a more traditional approach in prioritizing alignment, access control, and compliance infrastructure.
3. The Swiss government emphasized that its revised policy seeks not only to prevent misuse of sensitive technologies but also to safeguard Swiss research and industry’s ability to access and develop critical innovations.
4. This dual objective—security and competitiveness—is becoming a central theme across many national approaches to regulating quantum and emerging technologies.
5. As additional countries adopt or refine export control regimes, a more unified global approach to managing the movement of dual-use innovation is beginning to form.

References

1. https://www.reuters.com/markets/europe/switzerland-expands-export-controls-dual-use-goods-2025-04-02/
2. Federal Council to harmonise export controls for dual-use goods ... https://www.admin.ch/gov/en/start/documentation/media-releases.msg-id-104712.html
3.  Switzerland Expands Export Controls to Include Quantum Technologies ... https://thequantuminsider.com/2025/04/02/switzerland-expands-export-controls-to-include-quantum-technologies-aligning-with-u-s-and-eu-measures/