Why leading Life Sciences Companies choose Switzerland to centralize their HQ functions

Finding the right location to centralize your HQ functions or setting up a center of excellence presents unique challenges:  

• navigating complex regulations 

• attracting & retaining top-tier leadership talent 

• gaining strategic access to the European market 

• accessing a business ecosystem designed for global growth 

Switzerland solves these challenges. As the European HQ hub for leading life sciences companies from the US, Europe and Asia, such as Biogen, Medtronic, Incyte, Edwards Lifesciences, BeiGene and Takeda, Switzerland offers distinct competitive advantages: 

• Stability in a business-friendly environment: With attractive corporate tax rates, efficient compliance processes and supportive authorities, businesses can operate with greater ease compared to other European countries. Switzerland's predictable regulatory framework and pro-innovation policies ensure long-term stability and growth opportunities.  

• Strong IP Protection: Switzerland is known for its strong intellectual property protection, ensuring companies retain control over their critical assets. This makes it an ideal location for managing patents, trademarks and proprietary innovations.  

• Attract and Retain Top Leadership Talent: Gain access to professionals in R&D, regulatory affairs and leadership, thanks to a large and established life sciences cluster. Switzerland ranks first in the IMB Competitiveness Index when it comes to international experience by managers, and Switzerland’s exceptional quality of life makes it easy to relocate top management.  

“The Canton of Zug has proved ideal for our international headquarters. Its central location, transit connections, and modern infrastructure are essential for our business. The natural beauty and quality of life have helped us attract and retain outstanding talent.” - Dr. Katia Buller, Vice President and Head of Corporate Affairs International, Biogen 

• A Thriving Life Sciences Ecosystem: Switzerland's life sciences cluster has evolved around global pharma leaders like Novartis and Roche, fostering a dynamic environment of over 1’000 biotech, pharma, and medtech companies. With deep industry-academia collaboration, Switzerland continues to drive groundbreaking innovation.  

Patricia Gee leads Deloitte's Future of Health initiative in Switzerland. See what she has to say about the Swiss life sciences ecosystem here:

Stay up to date on the latest developments in the Swiss life sciences ecosystem! 

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EVENTS

SWISS BIOTECH DAY 2025

The Swiss Biotech Day, scheduled in Basel, Switzerland on 5-6 May 2025, is a premier biotechnology conference that yearly attracts around 2,500 professionals from over 40 countries.  

The conference serves as an anchor for the Global Village, a platform hosted by the Swiss Biotech Association in partnership with other Swiss organizations who engage in worldwide networking and international collaboration in biotech and life sciences.

Switzerland Global Enterprise, in partnership with the Swiss Biotech Association, organizes a dedicated Side Visit Program for Global Village delegations, offering a unique opportunity to explore Switzerland’s key life sciences hubs and network with selected ecosystem stakeholders - including R&D biotech companies, universities, investors and pharmaceutical companies. 

RESOURCES

ABOUT US

Are you thinking about taking your business to the next level and contributing to innovative, sustainable solutions for the future? Think Switzerland!

Consider Switzerland Global Enterprise (S-GE) and our Swiss Business Hubs around the world your partner, with the network, tools and resources needed to make informed location and investment decisions.

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