Population of Switzerland is less than that of Delhi, India, but its per capita GDP is one of the highest in the world. A vibrant direct democracy, Switzerland has been a safe haven for the wealthy and for business. How does this tiny country, not part of any economic or political bloc, punch so much above its weight ? The following data may help you to find the answers:
9th Largest in Per Capita GDP (PPP)
The country has several attractions:
Low taxes, low debt, reasonable growth, public budgets in the black, low unemployment and trade suplus.
Some of the highest GDP (PPP) per capita, 2012 ( in $) of the world:
1 Qatar 102211
2 Luxembourg 79785
4 Norway 55009
7 USA 49922
9 Switzerland 45418
DETAILS OF LABOUR FORCE IN SWITZERLAND
Total Population 8. Million
Labour force 4.91 Million
Unemployment 3.10 Million
Labour in Agriculture 3.14% of the total labour force
Industry 23.40%
Services 73.20%
Sectorwise GDP (in %)
Agriculture 1.30
Industry 27.70
Services 71.00
TOPS IN PRIVATE BANKING SHARE
The Swiss financial centre generates over 10% of the country's GDP. 6% of the total working population is directly employed by banks,Insurance companies and other financial institutions.
Insurance sector is the second important financial segment. Insurers' 70% of global premium income in 2011 was generated overseas. Switzerland is the fourth largest reinsurer in the world.
WORLD'S TOP EXPORTER IN PER CAPITA TERMS
Since its domestic market is rather small, access to foreign markets is of immense importance. Switzerland is the 20th largest exporter and 18th largest importer.
NO 1 source for Foreign direct investment
Switzerland is home to many large MNCs:
ABB, Roche, Nestle,Novartis, Logitech and Tetra pak etc.
Nestle, the biggest food company in the world, has about 278000 employees, 97% of them ourside Switzerland (2009).
SOURCE: Boston consulting Group 2012, Exports, CIA factbook, 2011, population reporting year for UK is 2011, 2013 for the rest. The Economic Times dt.15.05.2013.
V SENTHILNATHAN