Upcoming Trade Shows in Switzerland for Medical Equipment

Switzerland has firmly established itself as a global leader in the medical technology (medtech) sector, outpacing even its larger European neighbours like Germany and the UK in key areas. The medical equipment industry benefits from more than 1,400 companies and over 67,500 employees, which means that Switzerland holds one of the highest concentrations of medtech firms in Europe, accounting for 10% of the entire continent’s workforce in the field. This thriving industry generates revenue that in 2021 reached CHF 20.8 billion; a total of 2.2% of the country’s GDP. One of the driving forces behind Switzerland’s medtech success is the nation's deep-rooted precision in manufacturing. Historically known for its watchmaking and engineering prowess, Switzerland has transferred these meticulous skills into the medical equipment industry, where precision is crucial in developing advanced medical devices. Switzerland’s innovative approach to medtech is reflected in its consistent ranking atop the Global Innovation Index (GII), which it has held since 2011. Swiss companies in the medtech sector invest an average of 13% of their turnover in research and development (R&D). The high levels of R&D investment are a key factor in the industry’s growth, as companies that prioritise innovation tend to have the highest growth prospects. A standout feature of the Swiss medtech landscape is its strong focus on international markets. Nearly 90% of Swiss medtech products are sold abroad, making up more than 5% of the nation’s total exports. The country’s success in medtech is further supported by organisations like Swiss Medtech, a professional association with over 300 members. Swiss Medtech plays a crucial role in maintaining international competitiveness through promotional efforts, technology transfer, and training programs. Another important player is the Health Tech Cluster, which connects start-up companies with key partners.