OECD minimum tax: Suspending it puts Swiss companies at risk!

OECD minimum tax: Suspending it puts Swiss companies at risk!

The discussion about the OECD minimum tax in Switzerland is becoming increasingly urgent. The background is concern about possible US tariffs, which calls for a suspension of the minimum tax requirement. Critics argue that such a measure could provide relief for local businesses, while defenders of the tax warn that it would have significant negative consequences. Economiesuisse reports that the public discourse is characterized by fears that Switzerland could lose international tax money to which it is entitled.

With the introduction of the OECD minimum taxation on January 1, 2024, Switzerland will require large companies to pay at least 15 percent taxes on their profits, regardless of where they operate abroad. This regulation is supported by over 140 countries that are seeking to reform the international tax system. Switzerland is not viewed in isolation, but as part of a larger trend that numerous EU states are also following. provides details on this BDO.

Negative effects of exposure

A short-term suspension of the minimum tax could be loud Economiesuisse lead to other countries collecting tax money to which Switzerland is entitled. This could put an additional burden on Swiss companies by exposing them to higher tax demands abroad.

The uncertainties resulting from a possible suspension could result in significant legal disputes and even double taxation. Companies that have already invested in paying the minimum tax must be prepared for the possibility that high tax payments in Switzerland are at risk abroad. In addition, Switzerland would be at a disadvantage compared to the USA without an equivalent minimum tax system.

Political solutions and alternatives

Instead of calling for a unilateral suspension of the minimum tax, as some have suggested, political means could help to relieve the burden on companies. Economiesuisse emphasizes that cutting bureaucracy, abandoning social policy templates that increase labor costs, and relief programs are necessary to avoid the need for tax increases or cuts to important services.

Another aspect is the rejection of the Juso inheritance tax, which could also help to relieve the burden on the population. Many of the problems faced by Swiss companies are of their own making and can be solved through political decisions. Companies that are subject to the OECD minimum taxation should ensure that they correctly implement the regulations and tax obligations under the Swiss supplementary tax. This tax is relevant for companies with an annual turnover of at least 750 million euros and is organized according to complex rules.

The transition periods for submitting the relevant tax returns are also in the room. Companies must report the Swiss supplementary tax annually via an online portal and comply with the OECD declaration deadlines. The affected corporate groups must face this administrative challenge.