Switzerland
Switzerland has built one of the world's most prosperous economies, aided by the fact it has maintained neutral status - it remains outside the EU.
Economic Strengths
Low interest rates, falling inflation & low unemployment. Highly skilled labour force & high GDP per capita.
Economic Weaknesses
Protected cartels in electricity, energy, postal and telecommunications services. Highly subsidized agricultural sector. Reliance on financial & business services. Inflation expected to rise during 2008.
| Population | 7,557,520 |
| Capital city | Bern |
| Currency | Swiss franc |
| World GNP Ranking | 36 |
| Unemployment | 3.1% |
| Inflation | 1.17% |
Source: Central Intelligence Agency; The World Factbook, March 2009