Top Stories from Western Switzerland (July 2025)

From biotech breakthroughs to global trade agreements and precision-driven innovation, discover Western Switzerland’s top stories from July 2025.

Preserving the Spirit of the Montreux Jazz Festival in a Shifting Industry

In a new episode of the Getting Serious podcast, Montreux Jazz Festival CEO Mathieu Jaton shares how the iconic event stays relevant while honoring its roots. From digitization to global outreach, the conversation offers insight into creativity, culture, and leadership.

Swiss start-ups attract CHF 1.47 billion in first half of 2025

Venture capital investment in Swiss start-ups surged 36% year-on-year to reach CHF 1.47 billion in H1 2025. The biotech and fintech sectors led the growth, though overall deal activity continued to decline, underscoring persistent challenges for early-stage companies.

Compremium launches human study for non-invasive thyroid cancer diagnostic

Bern-based medtech Compremium has begun a first-in-human clinical trial to evaluate its ultrasound-based CPMX2 system. The device aims to improve thyroid cancer diagnostics by measuring tissue compressibility and reducing unnecessary surgeries.

Fribourg: The Growth Hub of Switzerland – A Video Series (Part 7–8)

In the latest episode of our video series, Fribourg’s agrifood and export industries take center stage. With a focus on innovation and high value creation, the canton leverages its unique blend of agricultural heritage and food-tech development to drive global competitiveness.

Biopôle expands with 18 new private laboratories for life sciences scale-ups

Biopôle in Lausanne is expanding its infrastructure with 18 new plug-and-play private labs in the Trypto building. The flexible setup is tailored for life sciences scale-ups ready to grow beyond the incubator stage, meeting strong regional demand for agile lab space.

Neuchâtel, a legacy of precision driving tomorrow’s innovation

A deep dive into Neuchâtel’s transformation from watchmaking heritage to global innovation hub. From quantum technology and cleantech to blockchain, semiconductors, and life sciences, the canton stands out for its unique blend of tradition and advanced industrial expertise.

Geneva ranks 5th in the world’s most liveable cities in 2025

Geneva secured 5th place in the 2025 Global Liveability Index by the Economist Intelligence Unit, thanks to its outstanding scores in healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The city continues to rank among the world’s top urban environments, reflecting its strong governance, international outlook, and exceptional quality of life.

Switzerland enters free trade deal with Mercosur to boost exports

Switzerland, as part of EFTA, has finalized a landmark free trade agreement with Mercosur. The deal will eventually eliminate tariffs on 95% of Swiss exports to South America, benefiting key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, machinery, and precision instruments.