Pledge to boost economic conditions

The government has outlined new economic goals to lower prices, enhance Switzerland's reputation as a business centre and maintain existing working hours.

The targets will underpin its 2008-2011 economic strategy for promoting sustainable growth and raising the gross domestic product from five to ten per cent, the cabinet announced on Thursday.

To tackle high prices, the government wants to strengthen competition within the domestic market and open it up further to foreign goods.

Business needed to be given the best possible access to foreign markets, supported by a favourable fiscal climate and infrastructure that performs, the government said. The expansion of the labour market within the European Union and improvements in training would also boost business.

These key targets were a reflection of concerns among consumers, workers and businesses, the government said.