Switzerland is working more closely with 18 other countries in international trade.
On July 17, 2026, the countries of the so-called Future of Investment and Trade Partnership met in Auckland, New Zealand. The name is somewhat unwieldy. But it stands for something simple: trading nations want to coordinate better so that goods flows function even in difficult times.
This is not about a new free trade agreement. It is also not about new tariffs. The adopted declarations are not legally binding.
Nevertheless, the topic is of interest to freight forwarders, shippers, and customs departments. Because recent years have shown how quickly supply chains can become disrupted. Pandemics, wars, sanctions, port congestion, raw material shortages, or new export controls: when each country acts alone, it quickly becomes complicated for the economy.
The participating countries therefore want to cooperate better on important goods. This includes, for example, goods, raw materials, or products that are important for the economy, supply, or security.
A second focus is digital trade. This involves less paper, more electronic documents, and simpler processes. For example, digital trade documents, electronic certificates, or systems that work better together.
This would be important for practical application. When documents are accepted digitally and cleanly, it saves time. The freight forwarder has to chase less paper. The shipper receives fewer follow-up questions. And the customs process becomes faster and clearer at best.
New members are Peru, South Korea, and Thailand. This brings the partnership to 19 countries.