
Switzerland halves value-free limit: New customs regulations from 2025
From January 1, 2025, the Swiss government will reduce the customs duty-free limit by half. Instead of the previous 300 francs, travelers who import goods worth more than 150 francs into Switzerland from abroad must declare them and pay the 8,1 percent VAT. This new regulation not only affects shopping tourism, but also has far-reaching effects on the travel industry and travelers' habits. The move to reduce the duty-free limit was initiated by the Swiss government to counteract ongoing shopping tourism. Many Swiss people take the opportunity to shop cheaply in countries near their borders, which puts pressure on local retailers. The reduction in the duty-free limit is an attempt to curb this trend and support the domestic economy. Especially in times of economic uncertainty, it is important that local retailers are strengthened in order to secure jobs and keep purchasing power in the region. The measure will also have a significant impact on the travel industry. Business travellers and holidaymakers who purchase souvenirs or other goods must now ensure that they comply with the new regulations in order to avoid fines. Many travellers have already failed to declare their purchases correctly at customs, which undermines customs regulations. Travellers' shopping behaviour Recent reports show that many travellers are bypassing customs controls by simply smuggling their purchases past customs. According to an article in Blick, it is assumed that around three out of four people returning across the border are importing goods illegally. This shows that it is not only a lack of controls, but also a lack of