Recently, the Swiss Federal Council announced plans to seek mutual recognition of electronic signatures between Switzerland and the European Union (EU). Currently, electronic signatures valid under Swiss law are not automatically accepted in the EU, and those compliant with EU regulations are not recognized in Switzerland. Establishing mutual recognition would ensure that electronic certificates issued by either party are legally accepted in both regions.

This initiative aims to promote digitalization and the secure use of electronic signatures across borders, addressing needs expressed by customs authorities and in public procurement. The Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC), in collaboration with the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), has been tasked with developing a negotiation mandate with the EU within one year.

For more details, you can read the official announcement in German.