The Swiss biotech industry: building resilience through global alliances

Switzerland’s biotech sector attracted over CHF 2.5 billion in capital investments and CHF 7.25 billion in revenue in 2024, driven by global partnerships and strong R&D momentum.

The newly released Swiss Biotech Report 2025 highlights a dynamic year for Switzerland’s biotech sector, with over CHF 2.5 billion in capital investments and CHF 7.25 billion in revenue. Despite geopolitical tensions and economic headwinds, the industry continues to grow—powered by international partnerships, scientific excellence, and an enduring commitment to global health.

The Swiss Biotech Report 2025 provides a detailed overview of the sector’s achievements, focusing on financial performance, regulatory progress, and strategic collaborations. R&D investments climbed to CHF 2.6 billion in 2024, underlining confidence in Switzerland’s innovation ecosystem and reinforcing its position as a trusted international partner in life sciences.

Private biotech companies played a leading role, securing a record CHF 833 million in financing and generating CHF 2 billion in revenues—a 10% increase year-on-year. Meanwhile, public companies raised CHF 1.67 billion, reflecting the industry’s adaptability in a still-cautious capital markets environment. Major transactions included CHF 163 million for Alentis Therapeutics and CHF 1.125 billion for Lonza, alongside strategic acquisitions such as Johnson & Johnson’s USD 1.25 billion deal for Yellow Jersey Therapeutics.

Global integration and regulatory strength fuel continued impact

Collaboration remains a cornerstone of the Swiss biotech model. Licensing deals and joint R&D projects—such as Idorsia’s partnership with Viatris and HAYA Therapeutics’ agreement with Lilly—highlight how Swiss firms continue to contribute to and benefit from global value chains.

On the regulatory front, Swissmedic approved 46 out of 54 new product applications in 2024. Its participation in international frameworks such as the Access Consortium and Project Orbis supports faster, coordinated drug approvals, while the MAGHP pathway continues to improve access to medicines in lower-income regions.

Life sciences products remain Switzerland’s largest export category, reaching CHF 149 billion in 2024 and accounting for over half of all national exports. Immunological products alone contributed 18.5% of total exports.

Swiss biotech companies also received widespread recognition. SOPHiA GENETICS was named one of the world’s “Best Places to Work,” and Idorsia’s chronic insomnia therapy won the 2024 Prix Galien Suisse, confirming the sector’s reputation for delivering high-impact innovation.

Despite global uncertainty, Switzerland’s biotech sector continues to thrive—driven by science, guided by collaboration, and connected through international partnerships that extend far beyond its borders.

Learn more about life sciences in Western Switzerland

Learn more about about biomanufacturing in Western Switzerland