Economic Background
Switzerland is one of the wealthiest countries in the world in terms of income per head, benefiting from a prosperous and stable modern market economy with low unemployment and traditionally low inflation. 

There are several contributing factors to Switzerland's economic success. Among others the Swiss economy benefits from an exceptionally good infrastructure and a highly skilled labour force. Moreover very liberal trade and investment policies, a highly developed legal system, and very rare labour unrest assure a smooth functioning of Switzerland's economic activity. 

The tourism, banking, and insurance industry are of great significance to the Swiss economy, accounting for a substantial proportion of Switzerland's gross domestic product. Additionally, Swiss mechanical, electronic, chemical and pharmaceutical products are known worldwide for precision and quality, and contribute largely to Switzerland's exports. 

Currency 
The Swiss currency is called "Schweizerfranken" (Swiss Franc), or in short "Franken" or "franc". One hundred "Rappen" make up one Swiss Franc. CHF is the official ISO representation for the Swiss Franc; however, the old notation SFr is also still used quite often. 

GDP Composition by Sector
The services sector is dominant in Switzerland with 64% of GDP, followed by the industrial sector with 34%. The agricultural sector accounts for only 2% of total GDP.

Industries
The major industries in Switzerland include machinery, chemicals & pharmaceuticals, watches, textiles, precision instruments, and tourism.

Export Products 
Main exported products include machinery, chemicals, metals, watches, and agricultural products.

Export Partners
The main export partner is the EU with 61% of total exports. The most significant export partner is Germany with 22 2%, followed by France with 9%, Italy with 8%, UK with 5.3%. Non-EU export partners are the US with 10.6%, and Japan with 3.9%. 

Import Products
Major imports include machinery, chemicals, vehicles, metals, agricultural products, and textiles.

Import Partners
Main import partner is the EU with 79.9% of total imports (Germany 32.2%, France 11%, Italy 10.2%, Netherlands 5.9%, UK 4.6%), followed by the US with 5.1%.