Swiss Biotech on the Rise: Strong Momentum in 2025
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Switzerland’s biotech sector continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and growth, even in a complex global environment. According to the latest Swiss Biotech Report 2026, the industry reached new heights in 2025—both in terms of revenue and investment—further strengthening the country’s position as a global life sciences powerhouse.
Record performance in a challenging context
The numbers speak for themselves. Total biotech revenues climbed to a record CHF 7.5 billion, while overall funding increased to CHF 2.6 billion, up from CHF 2.1 billion the previous year. This growth is particularly notable given the ongoing uncertainties in global capital markets.
A key driver of this momentum has been the surge in private investment. Privately held biotech companies raised CHF 1.15 billion, a 38% increase year-on-year, now representing 45% of total funding. This shift highlights the growing importance of private capital and international investors in supporting innovation.
Unlisted companies, in particular, raised 1.15 billion, compared with 833 million a year earlier, bringing their share of the total to 45%. This surge was led by Basel-based Windward Bio (186 million), followed by Zurich-based GlycoEra (104 million) and Vaud-based Orbis Medicines (84 million).
Talent and international collaboration at the core
The report highlights “talent and tenacity” as defining characteristics of the Swiss biotech sector. Employment in biotech R&D companies has now surpassed 21,000 full-time equivalents, reflecting sustained growth and the country’s ability to attract highly skilled professionals.
International collaboration also plays a central role. Strategic partnerships and licensing deals—often worth hundreds of millions—are becoming increasingly common, reinforcing Switzerland’s position as a global innovation partner.
A sector shaping the Swiss economy
Beyond biotech alone, the broader chemical, pharmaceutical, and life sciences industries accounted for 53% of Switzerland’s total exports in 2025. Notably, immunological products such as vaccines, cell therapies, and therapeutic proteins reached a record 20% share.
This underscores the strategic importance of life sciences not only for innovation, but also for the Swiss economy as a whole.
➡️ Swiss Biotech Report 2025 | ➡️ ©Canva Library