Press Release: Easier trade of processed agricultural products between EC and Switzerland

Following the bilateral agreements between the Swiss Confederation and the European Community, signed on 26 October 2004 and applied on a provisional basis, EU exporters of processed agricultural products were given easier access to Switzerland and vice versa, 3 February 2005. Exports refunds on products exported from the EU to Switzerland were abolished. On the Swiss side, agricultural levies and export refunds were planned to be substantially reduced and limited to the maximum price difference for the inputs of raw materials between the two markets. Exports and imports of sugar containing products were totally liberalised on both sides. Likewise, no agricultural levies were to be payable on products imported from Switzerland into the EU.