Federal Councillor Albert Rösti, Head of DETEC

Switzerland would be well advised to preserve its strengths even amid today’s geopolitical turmoil. Stability, innovation, and openness remain key to securing our future.

We are living in uncertain times. Our established economic order and geopolitical landscape are being put to the test. In this environment, reliable framework conditions are more important than ever — not only for the companies of scienceindustries, but for the Swiss economy as a whole. The economy must continue to be able to rely on Switzerland's stability going forward.

While the trend toward deglobalization is unmistakable — and Switzerland, as an export-driven economy, is particularly affected — our proven model of success is paying off precisely now. Built on neutrality, openness, and free trade, this model should continue to guide us. Rather than turning inward, we must remain committed to an innovation-driven economy, a strong network of free trade agreements, limited government intervention, and robust infrastructure.

Speaking of infrastructure: this includes not only efficient roads and railways, but also a secure energy supply. Switzerland invests several billion francs annually in transport and decarbonization — with the expansion of renewable energy sources being pursued with care and balance. We must weigh competing interests, such as increasing electricity production while protecting nature. And we must never lose sight of costs for households and businesses. At the same time, we need to avoid ideological dogmatism in energy policy. Climate-neutral technologies must be treated equally, regardless of their source — including new nuclear technologies. Technological openness is a strength, not a weakness.

I would like to thank scienceindustries for its support of the Federal Council’s energy policy and for the industry’s contribution to Switzerland’s sustainable development. Without the pharmaceutical, chemical and life sciences sectors, Switzerland would not be the country we know today.