Swissmedic publishes 2024 Annual Report

Post on: 09.06.2025

The Federal Council has approved the annual report and the 2024 annual financial statements of Swissmedic, the Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products. The document illustrates a year marked by important developments in the technological, scientific and regulatory fields, with positive operating results, but also a financial loss of more than CHF 23 million.

More accessible therapies thanks to rapid procedures

In the course of 2024, Swissmedic has promoted accelerated access to new therapies through the adoption of fast-track procedures, the strengthening of international cooperation and the definitive activation of the Innovation Office. Thanks to these initiatives, patients in Switzerland have been able to benefit more quickly from state-of-the-art treatment solutions. The authority maintained an innovation-oriented approach, simplifying authorisation processes and confirming its commitment to the safety and efficacy of medicinal products.

A year of strong digitalisation

Another strategic priority was the digital transformation, materialized through major investments in IT infrastructure. In 2024, the Swissmedic Public Cloud system was introduced and the online databases swissdamed for the registration of medical devices and SwissGMDP, for the consultation of GMP and GDP certificates, were launched. The first version of the new Swissmedic portal also arrived in the autumn, which is intended to become the reference point for the digital management of applications and authorisations. In addition, the technical basis for a central data analysis platform was developed, with the aim of optimising the use of professional information collected in the various systems.

Approvals and market control increase

During the year, the Institute approved 46 new medicinal products for human use, marking an increase of 12% compared to 2023, and 21 veterinary medicines, including two vaccines. More than 12,000 applications for authorisation or variation, authorised 198 clinical trials and more than 6,000 cases of illegal importation of medicinal products were handled. Swissmedic has also intensified inspections and expanded its staff to 520 full-time positions. An important step was the creation of the new 'Medical Device Surveillance' sector, which demonstrates the growing focus on this expanding market.

A deficit expected, but higher than expected

From a financial point of view, The 2024 financial year closed with a loss of 23.4 million francs, around 13 million francs higher than budgeted. This result was driven by a decline in revenue of around CHF 6 million and a increase in expenses of around CHF 7 million, mainly due to anticipated investments in digitalisation. The deficit was fully covered by the reserves accumulated in previous years, which totalled CHF 114.5 million.

Future objectives: continuity, competences and modern regulation

Swissmedic plans to continue in 2025 and beyond with the modernisation of its processes, strengthening internal digitization and enhancing the skills of staff. The challenges posed by regulatory, technological and health developments require a timely and competent approach, reflecting the growing dynamism in research and development of new therapies. Strengthening the international collaboration will also be central to ensuring high and globally harmonised standards.

Where to view the report

Swissmedic's annual report and annual financial statements 2024 is available on the Institute's official website, where you can view all data on your business and future goals.

Swissmedic Annual Report 2024