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An Export Compliance Policy outlines how Swiss companies handle international trade while following strict federal export control laws. It sets clear rules for shipping sensitive goods, technology, and data across borders, especially items that could have military applications under Switzerland's War Material Act and Goods Control Act.

The policy helps Swiss businesses protect themselves from severe penalties by creating specific procedures for screening trade partners, tracking controlled items, and securing necessary export permits. It covers everything from checking restricted country lists to training staff on red flags and documenting each export decision, ensuring companies meet both Swiss and international trade requirements.

Companies need an Export Compliance Policy when they start shipping goods, technology, or data outside Switzerland - especially before handling sensitive items like precision machinery, chemicals, or dual-use technologies. This policy becomes essential once your business begins dealing with international customers or partners, particularly in countries subject to trade restrictions.

Swiss manufacturers, research institutions, and technology firms rely on these policies to protect their operations from compliance violations. Key moments to implement include expanding into new foreign markets, developing products with potential military applications, or when handling items listed under the Goods Control Act. Having this policy in place prevents export violations that could trigger hefty fines or trading bans.

• Basic Export Controls: Entry-level policies focusing on core Swiss trade compliance requirements, ideal for SMEs just starting international trade
• Comprehensive Trade Compliance: Detailed policies covering all aspects of export control, sanctions, and customs requirements for large enterprises
• Technology-Specific: Specialized policies for software, data, and technical knowledge transfers under Swiss dual-use regulations
• Industry-Focused: Tailored versions for sectors like pharmaceuticals, machinery, or chemicals, addressing unique export risks
• Research Institution: Modified policies for academic and research organizations handling sensitive technical data or materials

• Export Control Officers: Lead the creation and maintenance of Export Compliance Policies, oversee implementation, and ensure company-wide adherence
• Legal Departments: Review policy alignment with Swiss trade laws, update content when regulations change, and advise on compliance risks
• Senior Management: Approve policies, allocate resources for compliance programs, and bear ultimate responsibility for trade violations
• Sales Teams: Follow policy guidelines when dealing with international customers and flag potential compliance concerns
• Logistics Staff: Execute day-to-day export procedures, maintain required documentation, and screen shipments against restricted lists

• Product Analysis: List all goods, technology, and data your company exports, identifying items requiring special permits under Swiss law
• Trade Partners: Document your international customers, distributors, and partners for screening against restricted party lists
• Risk Assessment: Map potential compliance risks based on export destinations, product sensitivity, and end-use applications
• Internal Procedures: Detail your current export processes, identifying gaps in documentation and control measures
• Team Structure: Clarify roles and responsibilities for export compliance within your organization
• Training Needs: Identify which staff members need export compliance training and at what level

• Policy Purpose: Clear statement of commitment to Swiss export control laws and international trade compliance
• Legal Framework: References to Swiss War Material Act, Goods Control Act, and relevant international regulations
• Screening Procedures: Detailed processes for checking restricted party lists and embargoed countries
• Classification Protocol: Guidelines for determining if items require export permits under Swiss control lists
• Documentation Requirements: Specific records needed for each export transaction and retention periods
• Violation Reporting: Clear procedures for reporting suspected export control violations
• Training Requirements: Mandatory staff training schedules and certification processes

An Export Compliance Policy differs significantly from an Export Agreement in both scope and purpose. While both documents deal with international trade, they serve distinct functions in Swiss business operations.

• Legal Framework: Export Compliance Policies outline internal procedures for following Swiss trade control laws, while Export Agreements are contracts between specific parties for individual transactions
• Duration and Scope: A compliance policy serves as an ongoing governance document for all export activities, whereas an export agreement covers specific shipments or trading relationships
• Primary Users: Compliance policies guide internal staff and operations across the organization, while export agreements bind external business partners and customers
• Content Focus: Policies emphasize regulatory compliance procedures and responsibilities, while agreements detail commercial terms, pricing, and delivery specifications