The year 2025 unfolded against a backdrop of growing trade tensions and the introduction of new U.S. tariffs. It was also marked by ongoing discussions between Switzerland and the European Union on the future of their bilateral relations. At the same time, companies had to contend with a strong Swiss franc and sluggish economic conditions in Europe, particularly in Germany.
Despite this challenging environment, investment projects in the canton of Fribourg continued to move forward. In 2025, the FDA supported 36 projects, compared to 32 the previous year. These projects are expected to create 412 jobs in the coming years and represent nearly CHF 160 million in investment, up from CHF 115 million in 2024.
Over the past ten years, the number of supported projects has remained in line with the average (36 projects per year). The number of projected jobs is below the decade average (561 jobs), reflecting a more cautious approach by companies in their growth outlook. Driven by several major industrial projects, investment levels remain strong and exceed the average for the period (CHF 148 million).
For Olivier Curty, State Councillor in charge of economic affairs, these results are noteworthy: “Companies in Fribourg continue to invest and expand their activities despite the uncertainties weighing on the global economy. I would like to thank them for their commitment and for the trust they place in the strengths and framework conditions of the canton of Fribourg.”
Large-scale Industrial Projects
Several projects highlight the strength of the canton’s industrial sector. In Bulle, UCB Farchim announced an investment program to support its growth and expand its production capacity. In Domdidier, Wago Contact Ltd has undertaken an expansion of its site to support the development of its connectivity and automation technologies.
Alongside expansion projects, the canton also recorded thirteen new business establishments. Six Swiss companies and seven foreign companies—from Belgium, France, Monaco, Poland, Brazil, and the United States—chose to set up in Fribourg in 2025.
Among these high value-added projects is Caladrius SA, a French company specializing in the production of ultra-fine metal powders for additive manufacturing, serving the aerospace, precision engineering, and medical sectors. Established in Murten through the GGBa (Greater Geneva Bern area) network, the company contributes to the circular economy by recycling metals. Another example is Meanwhile Swiss Ltd, active in autonomous mobile robotics, which has set up operations at the Marly Innovation Center (MIC).
Jerry Krattiger, Director of the FDA, highlights the diversity of economic dynamics in the canton: “The inauguration of Mestel’s new plant in 2025 reflects the successful completion of ambitious industrial projects in the canton. Investments undertaken by companies such as UCB Farchim and Wago show that Fribourg’s industrial base continues to evolve and strengthen. At the same time, the arrival of new Swiss and international companies confirms the canton’s attractiveness for innovative, high value-added projects.”
Collaborative Projects as a Driver of Innovation
The FDA is also responsible for implementing the New Regional Policy. In 2025, 23 projects were supported with a total of CHF 2.52 million in funding. Among them is H2TICE, the first project resulting from a collaborative project call. It aims to develop a solution to convert heavy-duty trucks to hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines.
The year 2025 also saw the launch of fribourg.swiss, a new identity designed to promote the canton’s economy beyond cantonal and national borders. It is rolled out through a website, a newsletter, and a dedicated LinkedIn account. Presented at the Richemont campus in Villars-sur-Glâne, the 2025 edition of the fribourg.swiss magazine, focusing on luxury and excellence, highlighted in particular the emergence of a dynamic watchmaking cluster in the canton.
The FDA continues its work supporting businesses and promoting the canton. Driven by a young population, a dynamic innovation ecosystem, and the availability of attractive industrial land, the canton of Fribourg has strong fundamentals to further strengthen and renew its economic base.
Mestel – Cutting-Edge Expertise Serving the Luxury Industry
This year’s FDA annual press conference is being held at Mestel’s site in Rossens, where the company recently inaugurated a high-tech facility. This state-of-the-art infrastructure strengthens its production capabilities and reflects its commitment to innovation and quality.
Based in Switzerland and Italy, Mestel SA and Mestel RSS, subsidiaries of the Antama Group, are recognized globally as leading players in the development and manufacturing of components for the watchmaking and fashion industries.
With deep expertise in rubber technologies, the company designs and produces high-end solutions that meet the most demanding standards of the luxury sector. Combining Italian design with Swiss quality, it employs around 200 people across Switzerland and Italy, including 80 in Rossens.
