UK trade deal with Switzerland will allow Brits to use e-gates
As Brits, we’ve all been there. Post-Brexit delays and standing in the long queue trying to get into Geneva to be on time for that first Watches & Wonders meeting, all the while our industry colleagues from elsewhere in the EU and Schengen area glide straight through.
However, thanks to a new trade deal between the UK and Switzerland, this is about to change, and British travellers will be allowed to use e-gates for the first time.
The government has confirmed that as soon as the end of this year, UK passport holders will be able to use the e-gates at Zurich airport, with Geneva and Basel set to announce a timetable shortly.
Despite being a separate scheme to Switzerland’s implementation of the EU’s new border control system – the Entry/Exit System (EES), it will be welcome news among the watch community.
For Watches & Wonders and the attached shows, British retailers, brands and media travelling through Geneva will be hopeful of a smoother experience next time around and with the all-new Basilia on the horizon, it will be equally as important for Basel to get the new system up and running.
As part of the statement announcing the deal, the government added that the deal has been estimated to increase UK exports to Switzerland by £5.2bn on an annual basis.
The BBC detailed that a services mobility trade deal which allows businesses to provide services for up to 90 days without a work permit was due to expire in 2029 but has been made permanent by the new deal.
UK employees will also be permitted to transfer to work in Switzerland for up to five years without stringent economic needs tests.
Commenting on the update, Sir Keir Starmer said: “”Whether you’re growing a business or travelling for work, this agreement is about making life easier and creating more opportunity for people across the UK.”
Adding: “It means British firms will find it easier to sell their expertise in one of our most important markets in Europe, supporting jobs and investment here at home.”
Organisers behind Basilia confirmed that the its dates would coincide with Watches & Wonders. Read the full Watch Insider story HERE:
