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Saturday, 5 September 2026dailybeirut.com
Economy
Switzerland’s economy expanded 1.5% in Q2 2026—the strongest quarterly growth since Q3 2021—driven by industry, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and rising exports, while inflation rose to 0.8% in August.
The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs announced on Thursday that Switzerland’s economy grew at its fastest pace in approximately five years during the second quarter of 2026.
Gross domestic product rose by 1.5% compared with the first quarter of 2026. This marks the strongest quarterly expansion recorded since the third quarter of 2021.
The chemicals and pharmaceuticals sector contributed most significantly to the growth. Industrial output overall increased by 3.9%, supported by a 4.5% rise in industrial production. Final domestic demand rose by 0.5% following a weak first quarter.
Private consumption climbed by 0.3%, driven by spending on health, food, restaurants, and housing. Government consumption rose by 0.4%.
Goods exports increased by 5.5%, while services exports rose by 1.6%. Imports rose by 2.2%, reflecting robust domestic demand. The Swiss National Bank projects economic growth of around 1% for 2026 and 1.5% for 2027.
Separate data released on Thursday showed that the inflation rate rose more than expected—to 0.8% in August—its highest level since September 2024. That compares with 0.4% in July.
