The Export Risk Guarantee Agency (ERG), which is based in Zurich, provides export insurance. Conditions are based on law SR946.11 of 1958 and subsequent amendments. Companies apply directly to the ERG. Its secretariat makes an initial review of requests for guarantees and payment of claims and then forwards them with its recommendations to the ERG board, composed of eight members representing the federal administration, economic and industrial associations and trade unions.
For amounts of less than CHF1m, the final decision rests with the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs. For amounts of CHF1m–2m, the Federal Department of Economic Affairs decides; for amounts exceeding CHF2m, the decision is taken in agreement with the Federal Department of Finance. For wide-ranging projects or those of major importance to the national economy, final authorisation must come from the Federal Council.
