Location opportunities for Switzerland in the face of global change
The technological transformation brought about by artificial intelligence marks an economic upheaval of historic proportions. According to the PwC study "Value in Motion", AI could increase global GDP by up to 15 percentage points by 2035. However, the full potential can only be realised if it is used responsibly and with social trust. For Swiss companies and locations, this presents far-reaching opportunities - and a clear mandate for action.
The global economy is at the beginning of a profound transformation. Artificial intelligence has the potential to stimulate growth on a historic scale by 2035. Globally, up to 15 per cent additional GDP growth could be achieved, in Western Europe up to 13.8 %. However, for this boost to become a reality, transparent, ethically supported framework conditions are needed to create trust in the technology. Companies and countries are called upon to actively help shape the social and regulatory framework.
The pressure to transform is increasing
Switzerland is well positioned to play a key role internationally. 84% of CEOs in Switzerland introduced AI technologies in their companies last year, a sharp increase on the previous year. At the same time, the study shows that USD 7.1 trillion in value creation will be redistributed worldwide in 2025 alone. For companies in Switzerland, now is the time to rethink business models, utilise potential and strategically develop innovation-friendly locations.
Growth areas along basic human needs
Growth in the future will no longer take place along traditional industry boundaries. Instead, new ecosystems will emerge, for example in the areas of mobility, housing, food, energy and communication. In these networks, technology providers, utilities and industrial companies are working together on integrated solutions. Investing in this cross-sector cooperation at an early stage can open up new value chains and secure locational advantages.
Climate change as a counterforce
The positive potential of AI is offset by the burden of climate change. By 2035, there is a threat of a global decline in GDP of up to 7 %. At the same time, energy requirements will increase due to data-intensive AI applications. Targeted increases in efficiency, for example in buildings or production processes, can reduce CO₂ emissions and conserve resources. The challenge lies in taking a systemic approach to climate protection and digitalisation.
Linking technological innovation and sustainable development will determine the attractiveness of tomorrow’s business locations. Those who invest in trustworthy AI applications, form cross-sector alliances and at the same time assume ecological responsibility will position themselves in the competition for future markets. Switzerland has the potential to become a globally relevant centre of innovation if politics, business and society actively and jointly shape change.