Valais: Economy

Despite the recession of recent years, the cantonal economy has proved especially dynamic. According to the economic index of the cantonal bank, Banque Cantonale du Valais, the Valais economy recorded 4.9% growth in February 2010, compared with the same month of 2009. This positive growth has already continued for four months in a row. 

 

Economy of the region

The cantonal economy is based mainly on SMEs, with 90% of firms in the Valais employing fewer than 100 people. However, larger companies and international groups are also present in the Canton, for example:

  • Grande Dixence SA
  • FMV (Forces Motrices Valaisannes)
  • Rio Tinto Alcan
  • Swissgas

 

The region’s economy is based on staple industries, e.g.:

 

  • Agri-foodsAgri-foods

    Mountain zones represent more than 60% of the total farmed area of the Canton.

  • EnergyEnergy

    In 2001, electricity generation in the Valais accounted for around 30% of Swiss hydro-electric production.

  • Chemicals-pharmaceuticsChemicals-pharmaceutics

    Sales abroad were up +116.7% in February 2010. That is the figure for exports from the Valais by the chemical and pharmaceutical industry.

  • TourismTourism

    The Valais is an important tourist destination which offers more than 120 winter and summer resorts.

 

For more information on economy in the Canton of Valais

Valais Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Valais fruit and vegetable trade organisation
Valais country