This act makes it impossible to re-export Swiss-made war materiel to countries involved in a conflict.
But on Thursday the Security Policy Committee passed two motions to ease the rules on the re-export of Swiss armaments. The motions were approved in the Senate committee by eight votes to five.
One of the motions seeks to lift some restrictions on the export of war materiel “in exceptional circumstances and if required to ensure national security”, said the committee in a statement.
The second could also allow deliveries to countries “that are committed to our values and have similar export controls to Switzerland”.
Buyers could re-export Swiss armaments after five years, under certain conditions. Re-exports to countries that “severely” violate human rights or pose a risk to the civilian population would be banned. This would allow the re-export of Swiss-made weapons to Ukraine, but not to Russia.
The president of the Committee, Werner Salzmann of the right-wing Swiss People’s Party, said the purpose of the motions was to ensure the viability of the Swiss defence industry.
This comes amid concerns that the country’s defence needs are not substantial enough for the domestic industry to survive and thrive at current levels, and that the current strict re-export rules could deter other nations from buying from Swiss suppliers in future.
The motion is set to go to another committee in the House of Representatives – the other Swiss parliamentary chamber – next month. No change is expected to take place before next year. In addition, amendments to the law could be challenged to a referendum, where Swiss voters would have the final say.
Popular Stories
More
Banking & Fintech
Luxury heir claims his CHF11 billion Hermès fortune has vanished
What can be done to protect biodiversity in your country?
Swiss voters are set to decide on a people’s initiative calling for better protection of ecosystems in the country. Have your say on the September 22 vote.
Swiss investigate four people linked to Russian oligarch
This content was published on
The Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland is investigating four individuals linked to Russian oligarch Suleyman Kerimov.
Swiss government scrambles to deal with egg shortage
This content was published on
From September 1, more eggs intended for consumption may be imported into Switzerland. In allowing this, the government wants to secure the supply of eggs for consumers.
This content was published on
Agricultural research sees new development opportunities for Swiss sparkling wines in the face of declining wine consumption. In a survey, half of consumers expressed a willingness to pay more for local products than for foreign ones.
Locarno spotlights filmmakers from South America and Caribbean
This content was published on
The Open Doors section of the Locarno Film Festival has named the winners for 2024. The spotlight is on the South American and Caribbean regions.
Storm paralyses trains to popular Swiss tourist resort
This content was published on
The railway line between Zweilütschinen and Grindelwald in central Switzerland is expected to remain closed until Friday following heavy rains.
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.
Read more
More
G7 countries question Swiss sanctions ‘loopholes’
This content was published on
Swiss media have published details of a letter by G7 ambassadors in Bern raising concerns about the implementation of Russian sanctions.
This content was published on
The Swiss parliament has failed in its attempt to force the government to ease restrictions on the re-export of war materiel.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.