{"id":10550,"date":"2025-12-05T09:33:42","date_gmt":"2025-12-05T08:33:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/?p=10550"},"modified":"2026-03-31T14:21:45","modified_gmt":"2026-03-31T12:21:45","slug":"swiss-general-import-permit-pgi-definition-permit-types-and-covered-products","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/swiss-general-import-permit-pgi-definition-permit-types-and-covered-products\/","title":{"rendered":"Swiss General Import Permit (PGI): definition, permit types and covered products"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The <strong>PGI<\/strong> (<strong>General Import Permit<\/strong>) is one of the main tools used in Switzerland to regulate the <strong>importation<\/strong> of certain <strong>sensitive products<\/strong>: <strong>agricultural goods<\/strong>, <strong>products subject to compulsory stockpiling<\/strong>, <strong>fuels<\/strong> and <strong>plant protection products<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>It is a <strong>framework authorisation<\/strong> granted to <strong>professional importers<\/strong>, enabling them to carry out <strong>repeated import operations<\/strong> within a strictly regulated environment.<\/p>\n<h2>Definition of the PGI: the General Import Permit in Switzerland<\/h2>\n<p>The <strong>General Import Permit (PGI)<\/strong> is a <strong>permanent authorisation<\/strong> (as opposed to a one-time import permit) that allows its holder to import <strong>goods subject to mandatory authorisation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>The <strong>PGI<\/strong> is required notably for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>agricultural products<\/strong> subject to the <strong>Ordinance on Agricultural Imports (OIAgr)<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li><strong>products subject to compulsory stockpiling<\/strong> (edible oils, sugar, coffee, rice, etc.), managed by <strong>R\u00e9serve Suisse<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li><strong>fuels and liquid combustibles<\/strong>, managed by <strong>Carbura<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li><strong>plant protection products<\/strong> imported for <strong>professional<\/strong> or <strong>commercial<\/strong> use.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The <strong>PGI<\/strong> is therefore an instrument of:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>agricultural policy<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li><strong>security of supply<\/strong> (compulsory reserves),<\/li>\n<li><strong>health protection<\/strong> and <strong>environmental protection<\/strong> (phytosanitary products, fuels).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-10539 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/permis-general-dimportation-suisse.jpeg\" alt=\"general import permit Switzerland\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/permis-general-dimportation-suisse.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/permis-general-dimportation-suisse-480x320.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>Main legal bases of the PGI<\/h2>\n<p>The legal foundations of the <strong>PGI<\/strong> are found in several pieces of Swiss federal legislation, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>the <strong>Ordinance on Agricultural Imports (OIAgr)<\/strong>, which requires an <strong>import permit<\/strong> (often in the form of a <strong>PGI<\/strong>) for certain <strong>agricultural products<\/strong> and <strong>tariff quotas<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li>regulations governing <strong>plant protection products<\/strong>, which require a <strong>PGI<\/strong> for <strong>professional imports<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li>ordinances on <strong>compulsory stockpiling<\/strong> (basic foodstuffs, fuels), which link <strong>importation<\/strong> to the Swiss <strong>compulsory reserve system<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li><strong>Swiss customs law<\/strong>, which distinguishes between <strong>specific import permits<\/strong>, <strong>general import permits (PGI)<\/strong> and other authorisations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Products subject to a General Import Permit in Switzerland<\/h2>\n<h3>Agricultural products under OIAgr<\/h3>\n<p>Many <strong>agricultural products<\/strong> may only be imported with a <strong>PGI<\/strong>, often in connection with <strong>tariff quotas<\/strong>. These include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>certain <strong>fruits<\/strong>, <strong>vegetables<\/strong> and <strong>potatoes<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li>certain <strong>processed products<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li>other <strong>foodstuffs<\/strong> listed in the <strong>OIAgr<\/strong> annex.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For these products, the <strong>PGI<\/strong> is often inseparable from the management of <strong>tariff quotas (TQ)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-10533 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Produit-douanier.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"378\" srcset=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Produit-douanier.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Produit-douanier-480x302.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<h3>Products subject to compulsory stockpiling \u2013 R\u00e9serve Suisse<\/h3>\n<p>For a number of <strong>essential food products<\/strong>, Switzerland imposes <strong>compulsory stockpiling<\/strong>. <strong>Importers<\/strong> exceeding specific <strong>quantity thresholds<\/strong> must hold a <strong>PGI<\/strong> and comply with the obligations laid down by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reservesuisse.ch\/?lang=fr\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">R\u00e9serve Suisse<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Products include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>edible oils<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li><strong>sugar<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li><strong>coffee<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li><strong>rice<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>other <strong>basic foodstuffs<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The <strong>R\u00e9serve Suisse PGI<\/strong> triggers obligations to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>build <strong>compulsory reserves<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>comply with <strong>stock rotation<\/strong> rules,<\/li>\n<li>undergo <strong>inspections<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Fuels and liquid combustibles \u2013 Carbura<\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>importation of fuels and liquid combustibles<\/strong> into the Swiss customs territory requires a <strong>PGI<\/strong> issued by <strong>Carbura<\/strong>. Products include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>gasoline<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li><strong>diesel<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li><strong>heating oil<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>certain <strong>special products<\/strong> of a similar nature.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The objective is to ensure <strong>strategic fuel reserves<\/strong> for the country\u2019s <strong>security of supply<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3>Plant protection products subject to authorisation<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Plant protection products<\/strong> (pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.) imported for <strong>professional<\/strong> or <strong>commercial<\/strong> use require a <strong>PGI<\/strong> issued by the <strong>Federal Office for Agriculture (FOAG)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>The holder of a <strong>phytosanitary PGI<\/strong> must in particular:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>comply with <strong>safety<\/strong> and <strong>health protection<\/strong> rules,<\/li>\n<li>ensure <strong>traceability<\/strong> of the products,<\/li>\n<li>provide <strong>safety data sheets<\/strong> and compliant <strong>labelling<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>comply with all regulations on <strong>environmental protection<\/strong> and <strong>water protection<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Who can obtain a PGI and under what conditions?<\/h2>\n<p>The following may obtain a <strong>PGI<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Individuals<\/strong> domiciled in Switzerland;<\/li>\n<li><strong>Legal entities<\/strong> and <strong>companies<\/strong> with their <strong>registered office<\/strong> in Switzerland;<\/li>\n<li><strong>Foreign companies<\/strong> with a <strong>Swiss branch<\/strong>, subject to the applicable rules.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-10530 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Import-Export-PGI-utilisation.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Import-Export-PGI-utilisation.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Import-Export-PGI-utilisation-480x320.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The conditions vary depending on the type of product:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>for <strong>agricultural products<\/strong>, <strong>FOAG<\/strong> requires a <strong>professional import activity<\/strong>, compliance with <strong>tariff quota<\/strong> rules and sufficient <strong>administrative capacity<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li>for products subject to <strong>compulsory stockpiling<\/strong>, <strong>R\u00e9serve Suisse<\/strong> and <strong>Carbura<\/strong> additionally require the capacity to manage <strong>stocks<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li>for <strong>plant protection products<\/strong>, the focus is on <strong>technical competence<\/strong> and <strong>compliance<\/strong> with <strong>safety<\/strong> rules.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Procedure for obtaining a PGI<\/h2>\n<p>The procedure for obtaining a General Import Permit (PGI) <strong>depends on the category of products concerned and on the competent authority<\/strong> (FOAG, R\u00e9serve Suisse, Carbura). In all cases, it is a structured administrative process designed to verify the importer\u2019s ability to meet the legal, technical and logistical requirements associated with the authorised goods. <strong>While the steps vary from one sector to another<\/strong>, they generally follow an official process including the PGI application, review of the conditions, integration into the relevant management systems and ongoing compliance with regulatory obligations.<\/p>\n<h3>Agricultural products \u2013 FOAG \/ OIAgr<\/h3>\n<p>For <strong>agricultural products<\/strong>, the <strong>PGI<\/strong> is generally requested via the electronic platform for managing <strong>tariff quotas<\/strong>. This platform enables users to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>request a <strong>General Import Permit<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>participate in <strong>tariff quota auctions<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>submit <strong>import applications<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>transfer <strong>quota shares<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>FOAG<\/strong> reviews the application and issues the <strong>PGI<\/strong> if all requirements are met.<\/p>\n<h3>Products under compulsory stockpiling \u2013 R\u00e9serve Suisse<\/h3>\n<p>For products managed by <strong>R\u00e9serve Suisse<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>the importer creates a <strong>client account<\/strong> on the <strong>R\u00e9serve Suisse<\/strong> portal;<\/li>\n<li>they request a <strong>PGI<\/strong> for the relevant <strong>product categories<\/strong> they intend to import;<\/li>\n<li>the <strong>R\u00e9serve Suisse PGI<\/strong> is generally issued free of charge;<\/li>\n<li>the holder is subject to <strong>compulsory stockpiling obligations<\/strong> and <strong>inspections<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Fuels \u2013 Carbura<\/h3>\n<p>For <strong>fuels<\/strong> and <strong>liquid combustibles<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>the importer applies to <strong>Carbura<\/strong> for a <strong>PGI<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li>the <strong>Carbura PGI<\/strong> integrates the importer into the system of <strong>compulsory petroleum reserves<\/strong> in Switzerland;<\/li>\n<li>obligations relating to <strong>storage<\/strong>, <strong>reporting<\/strong> and <strong>inspections<\/strong> apply.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Plant protection products \u2013 FOAG<\/h3>\n<p>For <strong>plant protection products<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>the applicant completes the official <strong>PGI application form<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.blw.admin.ch\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">FOAG<\/a> verifies the requirements (domicile, registered office, competence, regulatory compliance);<\/li>\n<li>the <strong>PGI<\/strong> is issued and must be updated in the event of changes (address, company name, commercial register data, etc.).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Using the PGI in customs practice<\/h2>\n<p>The <strong>PGI<\/strong> is not a <strong>customs declaration<\/strong>; it is a <strong>pre-authorisation<\/strong>. For each import:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>The importer identifies the <strong>tariff number<\/strong> in <strong>Tares<\/strong> (the electronic customs tariff).<\/li>\n<li>They check in <strong>Tares<\/strong> whether the number is subject to <strong>authorisation<\/strong> (PGI FOAG, <strong>R\u00e9serve Suisse<\/strong>, <strong>Carbura<\/strong>, etc.).<\/li>\n<li>They declare the <strong>PGI<\/strong> when submitting the <strong>electronic customs declaration<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>They keep documentation proving that the <strong>importation<\/strong> complies with the conditions attached to the <strong>PGI<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-10527 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Import-Document-Image.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Import-Document-Image.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Import-Document-Image-480x320.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<p>An <strong>importation without a PGI<\/strong> where a <strong>PGI<\/strong> is required may lead to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>blocked or seized goods<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li><strong>administrative sanctions<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li>possibly <strong>criminal penalties<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For companies that must manage import VAT and related reporting obligations, it may be necessary to appoint a <a href=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/our-services\/tax-representative-for-vat-in-switzerland\/\">VAT tax representative in Switzerland<\/a>, particularly when import operations are frequent or involve significant volumes.<\/p>\n<h2>Duration, fees and obligations of PGI holders<\/h2>\n<p>As a general rule:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>the <strong>PGI<\/strong> is <strong>valid until revoked<\/strong>, unless expressly limited in time;<\/li>\n<li>issuance of a <strong>PGI<\/strong> by <strong>FOAG<\/strong>, <strong>R\u00e9serve Suisse<\/strong> or <strong>Carbura<\/strong> is often <strong>free of charge<\/strong>, although <strong>inspection<\/strong> or <strong>administrative<\/strong> fees may apply;<\/li>\n<li>the holder must:\n<ul>\n<li>maintain a <strong>record of imports<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li>comply with the authorised <strong>quantities<\/strong> and <strong>conditions<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li>submit to <strong>inspections<\/strong> by the authorities;<\/li>\n<li>comply with any <strong>compulsory stockpiling obligations<\/strong>, where applicable;<\/li>\n<li>comply with all applicable <strong>sector-specific regulations<\/strong> (agricultural, energy, phytosanitary).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Failure to comply with these obligations may result in:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>suspension<\/strong> or <strong>withdrawal of the PGI<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li><strong>fines<\/strong> and other <strong>sanctions<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These obligations can be managed internally or entrusted to <a href=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/our-services\/administration-services-for-swiss-companies\/\">administration services for Swiss companies<\/a>, ensuring rigorous monitoring of imports, inventory and compliance controls.<\/p>\n<h2>PGI, specific import permits and other authorisations<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Swiss customs law<\/strong> distinguishes between:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>specific import permits<\/strong> (one-off authorisations for a particular operation);<\/li>\n<li><strong>general import permits (PGI)<\/strong> (framework authorisations for repeated imports);<\/li>\n<li>other <strong>licences<\/strong> and <strong>authorisations<\/strong> (including export licences).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The choice between a <strong>specific import permit<\/strong> and a <strong>PGI<\/strong> depends in particular on:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>the <strong>frequency<\/strong> of imports,<\/li>\n<li>the <strong>annual volume<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>the <strong>nature of the products<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>To explore the tax implications related to import operations in more detail, you may also refer to our article on the <a href=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/the-crucial-importance-of-effective-vat-management-for-imports-in-switzerland\/\">effective management of import VAT in Switzerland<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Upcoming reform of the agricultural PGI<\/h2>\n<p>A <strong>reform of Swiss customs law<\/strong> and of the <strong>Ordinance on Agricultural Imports (OIAgr)<\/strong> plans to <strong>eliminate the PGI<\/strong> as the central instrument for managing <strong>agricultural tariff quotas<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>This means that in the coming years:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>the <strong>agricultural PGI<\/strong> is likely to be replaced by other <strong>quota management mechanisms<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li><strong>import processes<\/strong> will have to be <strong>updated<\/strong> (ERP systems, internal procedures, contracts);<\/li>\n<li><strong>importers<\/strong> will need to closely monitor the <strong>entry into force<\/strong> of the new rules.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>As of today, however, the <strong>PGI<\/strong> remains <strong>in force<\/strong> for <strong>agricultural products<\/strong>, and importers must continue to comply with the existing framework.<\/p>\n<h2>\u2705 Practical checklist for importers<\/h2>\n<p>For an <strong>importer<\/strong>, the typical process is as follows:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Identify the <strong>product<\/strong> and its <strong>tariff number<\/strong> in <strong>Tares<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Check whether the <strong>importation<\/strong> is subject to a <strong>PGI<\/strong> (mention of an authority such as <strong>FOAG<\/strong>, <strong>R\u00e9serve Suisse<\/strong>, <strong>Carbura<\/strong>, etc.).<\/li>\n<li>Determine whether a <strong>PGI<\/strong> is required or whether a <strong>specific, one-off permit<\/strong> is sufficient.<\/li>\n<li>If necessary, submit a <strong>PGI application<\/strong> (FOAG platform, <strong>R\u00e9serve Suisse<\/strong> portal, contact with <strong>Carbura<\/strong>, <strong>phytosanitary<\/strong> application form).<\/li>\n<li>Update <strong>internal procedures<\/strong> (import checklist, instructions to the forwarder, ERP configuration) with the <strong>PGI number<\/strong> and applicable <strong>conditions<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure ongoing compliance with <strong>obligations<\/strong>: <strong>compulsory stockpiling<\/strong>, <strong>declarations<\/strong>, <strong>inspections<\/strong>, possible <strong>renewals<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Monitor <strong>legal developments<\/strong> (<strong>customs reform<\/strong>, revisions of the <strong>OIAgr<\/strong>) to adjust your compliance framework in good time.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-10536 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Import-Export-Checklist-PGI.jpeg\" alt=\"Import Export Checklist\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Import-Export-Checklist-PGI.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Import-Export-Checklist-PGI-480x320.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>How My Swiss Company SA supports importers in Switzerland<\/h2>\n<p>The Swiss regulatory environment surrounding the <strong>PGI (General Import Permit)<\/strong>, <strong>agricultural quotas<\/strong>, <strong>compulsory stockpiling<\/strong> and customs procedures is evolving rapidly and requires a solid command of tax, customs and administrative law. For an importing company, compliance does not stop at obtaining the right permit: it also involves continuous oversight of obligations, close monitoring of regulatory changes and precise coordination between the authorities (FOAG, R\u00e9serve Suisse, Carbura, BAZG), the freight forwarder and in-house accounting.<\/p>\n<p>This is precisely where <strong>My Swiss Company SA \u2013 Swiss fiduciary firm<\/strong> steps in. We help importing businesses to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>determine the correct <strong>tariff numbers<\/strong> and assess whether a <strong>PGI<\/strong>, a <strong>specific permit<\/strong> or a simple <strong>customs declaration<\/strong> is required;<\/li>\n<li>submit <strong>official applications<\/strong> to FOAG, R\u00e9serve Suisse or Carbura and manage all administrative exchanges until the permit is obtained;<\/li>\n<li>design or adapt their <strong>internal procedures<\/strong> (ERP, customs checklists, documentation for freight forwarders) to ensure ongoing compliance;<\/li>\n<li>manage <strong>regulatory follow-up<\/strong>, including <strong>compulsory stockpiling obligations<\/strong>, <strong>periodic declarations<\/strong>, <strong>inspections<\/strong> and any necessary <strong>permit updates<\/strong>;<\/li>\n<li>anticipate <strong>customs reforms<\/strong> and <strong>OIAgr<\/strong> developments in order to secure their import processes over the long term.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>As a <strong>specialised fiduciary<\/strong>, we act as a single, reliable and proactive point of contact to ensure that your company imports into Switzerland in full compliance, without the risk of customs blockage, sanctions or loss of quota rights.<\/p>\n<section id=\"faq\">\n<h2>FAQ \u2013 PGI and import authorisations in Switzerland<\/h2>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>What is a PGI in Switzerland?<\/h3>\n<p>The PGI is a <strong>general import permit<\/strong> that allows a professional importer to repeatedly import <strong>goods subject to authorisation<\/strong>, such as agricultural products, fuels, goods subject to compulsory stockpiling, or plant protection products.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>What is the difference between a PGI and a specific import permit?<\/h3>\n<p>A <strong>PGI<\/strong> is a <strong>permanent authorisation<\/strong> covering recurring imports, whereas a <strong>specific import permit<\/strong> is issued for a single operation or a limited quantity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>Which products require a PGI?<\/h3>\n<p>A <strong>PGI<\/strong> may be required for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>certain <strong>agricultural products<\/strong> under OIAgr,<\/li>\n<li>products subject to <strong>compulsory stockpiling<\/strong> by R\u00e9serve Suisse (oils, sugar, rice, coffee, etc.),<\/li>\n<li><strong>fuels and liquid combustibles<\/strong> (Carbura),<\/li>\n<li><strong>plant protection products<\/strong> intended for professional or commercial use.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>Who can obtain a PGI?<\/h3>\n<p>The following are eligible for a PGI:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>individuals<\/strong> domiciled in Switzerland,<\/li>\n<li><strong>Swiss companies<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li><strong>foreign companies<\/strong> with a branch in Switzerland.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The exact requirements vary depending on the competent authority (FOAG, R\u00e9serve Suisse, Carbura).<br \/>\nCompanies that do not yet have a local entity may, where required, rely on <a href=\"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/our-services\/swiss-company-formation-services\/\">Swiss company formation and establishment services<\/a> to meet the conditions necessary to obtain a PGI.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>How do I request a PGI for agricultural products (OIAgr)?<\/h3>\n<p>Applications are submitted via the <strong>electronic tariff quota management platform<\/strong>. FOAG reviews the application, verifies the import conditions and issues the PGI if all criteria are met.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>How do I obtain a PGI for products subject to compulsory stockpiling?<\/h3>\n<p>Companies must open an account with <strong>R\u00e9serve Suisse<\/strong>, request a PGI for the relevant product categories and comply with all compulsory stockpiling obligations (quantities, rotation, inspections).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>How do I obtain a PGI for fuels and liquid combustibles?<\/h3>\n<p>Companies must apply to <strong>Carbura<\/strong>, which assesses their storage capacity and compliance with the requirements of the Swiss compulsory fuel reserve system.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>How do I obtain a PGI for plant protection products?<\/h3>\n<p>The applicant must complete an official <strong>FOAG<\/strong> form. The PGI is granted only if the company meets all requirements in terms of <strong>safety<\/strong>, <strong>traceability<\/strong>, <strong>technical competence<\/strong> and <strong>regulatory compliance<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>Is a PGI required for all imports?<\/h3>\n<p>No. A PGI is required only for products that are specifically <strong>subject to authorisation<\/strong>. For other goods, a standard <strong>customs declaration<\/strong> is sufficient.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>How do I know if a product requires a PGI?<\/h3>\n<p>You must consult the <strong>Tares<\/strong> customs tariff and check whether the <strong>tariff number<\/strong> is indicated as <strong>subject to authorisation<\/strong>. The competent authority (FOAG, R\u00e9serve Suisse, Carbura, etc.) will appear in Tares where a PGI is required.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>How is a PGI used during an import?<\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>PGI<\/strong> must be declared in the <strong>electronic customs systems<\/strong> at the time of import. The importer must also keep all documentation proving that the import complies with the conditions of the permit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>What happens if I import a product requiring a PGI without one?<\/h3>\n<p>The goods may be <strong>blocked<\/strong>, <strong>seized<\/strong> or returned. The company risks <strong>administrative<\/strong>, <strong>tax<\/strong> and <strong>criminal<\/strong> sanctions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>Does the PGI have a validity period?<\/h3>\n<p>In general, the PGI remains <strong>valid until revoked<\/strong>, unless a specific time limit is set. It must be updated whenever the company\u2019s details change (address, commercial register, changes in activity, etc.).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>Is the PGI subject to fees?<\/h3>\n<p>Issuance is generally <strong>free of charge<\/strong>, although some authorities may charge fees for <strong>inspections<\/strong>, <strong>checks<\/strong> or related services.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>Does the PGI impose specific obligations?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes. Depending on the category of products concerned, the company must:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>maintain <strong>import records<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>comply with <strong>compulsory stockpiling<\/strong> rules where applicable,<\/li>\n<li>respect authorised <strong>quantities<\/strong> and limits,<\/li>\n<li>submit to <strong>inspections<\/strong> by the authorities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>What is the difference between a PGI and tariff quotas?<\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>PGI<\/strong> is an <strong>import authorisation<\/strong>, while <strong>tariff quotas<\/strong> are volumes of imports benefiting from preferential customs duty rates. The two mechanisms are often linked in the context of agricultural imports.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>Will the agricultural PGI be abolished?<\/h3>\n<p>A reform of Swiss customs law provides for the future <strong>elimination of the PGI<\/strong> as the main mechanism for managing agricultural quotas. Importers will have to adapt to new procedures once the revised legal framework comes into force.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>How can My Swiss Company SA assist with PGI management?<\/h3>\n<p>My Swiss Company SA supports importers with:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>tariff classification,<\/li>\n<li>assessment of customs obligations,<\/li>\n<li>PGI applications (FOAG, R\u00e9serve Suisse, Carbura, FOAG\u2013phytosanitary),<\/li>\n<li>implementation of <strong>internal procedures<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>ongoing <strong>regulatory monitoring<\/strong> and compliance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>Do I need a PGI to import wine or alcohol into Switzerland?<\/h3>\n<p>Some <strong>agricultural products<\/strong>, including certain foodstuffs and processed products covered by OIAgr, may only be imported with a <strong>PGI<\/strong>. Depending on their classification in the customs tariff and the quotas concerned, some products such as <strong>wine<\/strong> may require a <strong>General Import Permit<\/strong>. You must always check the <strong>tariff number<\/strong> in <strong>Tares<\/strong> to determine whether the import is subject to authorisation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>How can I check whether my product is subject to an import permit?<\/h3>\n<p>You must identify the product\u2019s <strong>tariff number<\/strong> in <strong>Tares<\/strong> and then check whether this number is indicated as <strong>subject to authorisation<\/strong> (PGI FOAG, R\u00e9serve Suisse, Carbura or others). Where a <strong>PGI<\/strong> is required, the competent authority appears directly in Tares, confirming that a <strong>General Import Permit<\/strong> may be necessary.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"question\">\n<h3>What is the difference between a PGI and an import licence?<\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>PGI<\/strong> is a <strong>permanent authorisation<\/strong> allowing <strong>repeated imports<\/strong> of goods subject to authorisation (agricultural products, compulsory stockpiling, fuels or plant protection products). An <strong>import licence<\/strong> in the broader sense covers various types of authorisations, including the <strong>specific import permit<\/strong>, which applies only to a single operation or a defined quantity. The PGI is therefore a specific type of licence designed for <strong>ongoing import activity<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The PGI (General Import Permit) is one of the main tools used in Switzerland to regulate the importation of certain sensitive products: agricultural goods, products subject to compulsory stockpiling, fuels and plant protection products. It is a framework authorisation granted to professional importers, enabling them to carry out repeated import operations within a strictly regulated [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":10525,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[36],"tags":[51],"class_list":["post-10550","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-corporate-taxation","tag-en"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10550","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10550"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10550\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10562,"href":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10550\/revisions\/10562"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10525"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10550"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10550"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/my-swiss-company.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10550"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}