The transboundary movement of waste is regulated in the Basel Convention and in the OECD Council Decision. As Switzerland has ratified the Basel Convention and is a member of the OECD, the relevant provisions are also valid for Switzerland.
This information brochure is directed at exporters and importers of waste and it describes the international and domestic regulations relating to transboundary shipments. Vague legal concepts are clarified and, in particular, the necessary conditions and procedures for obtaining an export authorisation and import consent are explained.
Transboundary movement of waste
FOEN Information brochure for applicants. 1st updated edition 2022. 1st edition 2017.
Amendmentsto the Basel Convention concerning plastic waste
On 10 May 2019 amendments relating to the transboundary movement of plastic waste were adopted in the Basel Convention. These amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2021. You will find in this document the consequences on exports and
imports of plastic waste:
Under what conditions can used consumer items be exported as goods?
Used objects or appliances are not considered waste if they are still in working order, adequately packed and are used for their original purpose. Such objects or appliances may be exported as goods, providing the necessary customs formalities are observed if they do not contain any banned substances.
Useful contact information
For general questions regarding the transboundary movement of waste: waste.competentauthority@bafu.admin.ch
Documents concerning notifications for import, export and/or transit of waste, including acknowledgements of receipt and consents from competent authorities, shall be sent to: waste.competentauthority@bafu.admin.ch
Accompanying documents with acknowledgement of receipt and/or proof of disposal of exported waste, shall be sent to: veva@band.ch
Accompanying documents in connection with the import and/or transit of waste (transport registration documents, confirmation of receipt and proof of disposal) are not required by the FOEN.
Further information
Law
Documents
Einreichen von Unterlagen für Gesuche zur Aus- und Einfuhr von Abfällen (PDF, 288 kB, 19.09.2024)(available in German, French and Italian)
veva-online: Benutzerhandbuch für Abgeber- und Entsorgungsbetriebe (PDF, 2 MB, 01.05.2019)(available in German, French and Italian)
Merkblatt der Strassenverkehrsverbände zur Registrierung von Transporteuren in Italien (PDF, 191 kB, 01.04.2011)(German version, also available in French)
Customs agreement between the Principality of Liechtenstein and Switzerland (PDF, 63 kB, 19.07.2013)
Exporting consumer goods: Second-hand articles or waste?
Useful tips for dealers, carriers and relief organisations. 2nd updated edition. 2016
Last modification 19.09.2024
