UN sanctions update: implications for Swiss companies (cross-border guide)

Context

In brief

• The UN Sanctions Committee has updated the list of individuals, companies and organizations subject to sanctions.
• The SESAM database has been updated accordingly.
• The Federal Council has approved the Ordinance on the Automatic Adoption of the UN Security Council Sanctions Lists.

Key Facts

• What: Updating the UN sanctions lists.
• When: August 28, 2026.
• Where: Bern.
• Who: UN Sanctions Committee.
• Amount: Not specified.

The UN Sanctions Committee has amended the list of individuals, companies and organisations subject to sanctions. The SESAM database has been updated in a similar way. On 4 March 2016, the Federal Council approved the Ordinance on the Automatic Implementation of the UN Security Council Sanctions Lists. This means that the amendments to the UN Security Council sanctions lists will become legal in Switzerland immediately.

Operational details

Practical Implications

The update of the UN sanctions lists has significant implications for Swiss companies that operate internationally. The changes to the UN Security Council sanctions lists become legal in Switzerland immediately, thanks to the ordinance approved by the Federal Council on 4 March 2016. This means that companies must be particularly careful when verifying their business partners and suppliers in order to avoid incurring penalties.

Verification Procedures

Swiss companies must regularly update their control systems to ensure compliance with the new sanctions lists. This includes verifying business partners and suppliers through the SESAM database. Companies that fail to comply with these provisions could face significant penalties, which can include fines and other penalties.

Possible Scenarios

A company that has not updated its internal controls may find it difficult to comply with the new provisions, risking penalties of up to CHF 500,000. On the other hand, a company that has implemented an advanced monitoring system can respond quickly to sanctions list updates, ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties.

Useful tools to protect your net income

To reduce FX leakage, compare CHF-EUR exchange options and banks for cross-border workers.

Key points

Actions to Take

Swiss companies must take immediate steps to ensure compliance with the new sanctions lists. This includes:

• Update internal control systems.
• Regularly check business partners and suppliers through the SESAM database.
• Implement an advanced monitoring system to respond quickly to sanctions list updates.

Useful Tools

For more information and support, companies can consult the salary calculator and the CHF/EUR comparator available on our website. These tools can help you better manage the financial implications of the new provisions.

Conclusion

Updating the UN sanctions lists requires special attention from Swiss companies. By following verification procedures and implementing advanced monitoring systems, companies can ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

Source: admin.ch