China and Switzerland signed an upgrade protocol to their free trade agreement
on Oct. 30, MOFCOM said. Each side will complete domestic procedures to seek
early entry into force. The protocol raises market access for goods, services
and investment; once effective, zero-tariff coverage could exceed 99% of
bilateral trade by value. Swiss exports including coffee, machine tools, watches
and medical products will gain broader access to China. Chinese oilseeds such as
sunflower seeds, vegetable oils and pet food will receive preferential tariffs
into Switzerland. Switzerland made new commitments on movement of natural
persons, traditional Chinese medicine and equipment maintenance; China opened
manufacturing-related services and professional design and made high-level
commitments in finance, maritime and aviation services.
