Switzerland Facts and Figures

Switzerland’s Global Role and Distinctive Qualities

Switzerland, nestled in Central Europe and bordered by France, Germany, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein, is renowned for its prosperous cities, including Zurich, Geneva, and Bern. Known for its neutrality, Switzerland has joined key global organizations, such as the United Nations in 2002 and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) in 1960. As a founding member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 1919, Switzerland actively supports social and economic development worldwide. Its high standard of living, advanced infrastructure, and world-class banking and finance sectors have cemented its status as a global financial hub, making it a valuable focus for academic and market research in Switzerland.

Demographic Overview

Switzerland’s population totaled 8,849,852 in 2023, with a population density of 220 people per square kilometer (2021). The working-age population constitutes 65.6% as of 2022, and the median age of 43 years in 2024 reflects a mature demographic. Switzerland maintains a high life expectancy of 83 years (2022), indicative of robust healthcare standards. Population growth is steady at 0.8% annually (2023), though the fertility rate of 1.4 (2022) falls below the replacement rate, which could impact future workforce levels. The crude death rate is 8.5 per 1,000 persons, while infant mortality remains low at 3.5 per 1,000 live births (2022). With 74.2% of its population living in urban areas in 2023, Switzerland shows high urbanization, reflecting a focus on urban infrastructure.

Economic Profile

Switzerland’s GDP reached $884.9 billion in 2023, ranking it as the 20th largest economy globally. The economy expanded at 2.6% in 2023, demonstrating stable growth. Inflation has moderated, decreasing from 2.1% in 2023 to 1.5% in 2024, supporting stable consumer purchasing power. Switzerland’s trade surplus of $56.1 billion in 2023 is driven by exports of $420.2 billion and imports of $364.1 billion. Unemployment stands at 4.1% in 2023, slightly improved from 4.3% in 2022, reflecting a healthy labor market. The services sector dominates with 71.8% of GDP (2022), while industry contributes 24.9% and agriculture 0.6%.

Public and Military Spending

Switzerland’s fiscal policies emphasize discipline, with general government debt at 39.12% of GDP (2022) and central government debt reducing to 14.4% from 16.38% in 2012. Net lending in 2023 stands at 0.53% of GDP, indicating a positive balance. Switzerland maintains a small military, with 21,000 personnel (2016) or 25% of the population. Military spending has held steady at 0.8% of GDP in recent years, consistent with Switzerland’s commitment to neutrality.

Conclusion

Switzerland offers a unique market research opportunity, with a stable and high-performing economy, advanced demographic profile, and a focus on financial services and urban infrastructure. The nation's steady growth, efficient public finance, and neutral military policy make it an attractive case study in sustainability and economic resilience. Market research in Switzerland benefits from analyzing the country's demographics, fiscal stability, and ongoing urbanization trends that collectively reinforce its position as a global leader.