Swiss government backs looser arms export rules

The Swiss Federal Council is campaigning for approval of a revised war material law that would ease some restrictions on arms exports, SRF reports. Voters will decide on the changes on November 29.

Under current rules, Switzerland cannot export war material to countries involved in internal or international conflicts. The government says the strict rules have made the Swiss defence industry less attractive and put it under pressure since Russia began its war against Ukraine.

The revision, backed by a centre-right majority in parliament, would give the Federal Council more room to approve arms exports and re-exports under certain conditions. In principle, it would make it easier for Western countries to pass on Swiss-made military equipment to third countries.

The government would also gain the power to veto a transfer and require military goods to remain in the purchasing country if security or neutrality concerns arise. In exceptional circumstances, it could depart from existing approval criteria to protect foreign or security policy interests, while still observing Switzerland’s international obligations.

The Federal Council says the changes would give it greater foreign policy flexibility in exceptional crises and strengthen the defence industry as a foundation for national defence. President Guy Parmelin told parliament the revised rules would be applied in strict compliance with Swiss neutrality and international law.