International presence as a strategic approach
SERV aims to increase Swiss companies’ participation in major international infrastructure projects through its major infrastructure projects (GIP) mandate. To this end, “Team Switzerland Infrastructure” is expanding its presence in selected target markets and strengthening cooperation with local partners and international project participants.
SERV is thereby focusing on cultivating relationships with key project sponsors and international EPC (engineering, procurement, construction) companies. The aim is to identify relevant developments at an early stage and open up new opportunities for Swiss companies.
International presence in high-growth markets
New infrastructure projects are under development all over the world, particularly in the fields of energy, transport and water. To keep an eye on trends and project plans in these markets, “Team Switzerland Infrastructure” is extending its focus to regions with significant infrastructure requirements, including the Middle East, parts of Africa and Asia, and Latin America.
SERV is working together with the Swiss Business Hubs (SBHs) in the Middle East, India and Brazil to expand its presence in certain markets in connection with the GIP mandate. In addition to the markets where the hubs operate, this particularly includes Saudi Arabia, Oman, Iraq, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Peru.
Local expertise is key
International infrastructure projects are often developed over a period of several years and involve numerous actors, making local presence and market knowledge crucial for the early identification and assessment of relevant developments.
The infrastructure specialists at the Swiss Business Hubs monitor the markets, maintain contacts with project sponsors, authorities and companies, and provide first-hand market information. This allows the GIP team to assess which projects could be of interest to Swiss companies.
New potential in challenging markets
Many of the target markets require a high level of investment in energy, transport and water infrastructure. At the same time, projects there often entail increased economic or political risks.
This is precisely where SERV can add value: its insurance solutions can help to facilitate financing and insure risks, creating better conditions for Swiss products and services to be incorporated into large international projects.
Central coordination at SERV
This international presence is complemented by the GIP team within SERV. SERV’s experts in Switzerland coordinate activities, analyse relevant projects and markets, and communicate with the local specialists, connecting international market knowledge with the expertise and networks within SERV.
The close collaboration between the GIP team in Switzerland and the specialists at the Swiss Business Hubs creates an international network geared to the needs of the Swiss export industry.
