Soon, even more areas of Switzerland will be connected to super-fast internet services, under plans announced by the government. 730 million francs are set to be spent on providing fibre-optic broadband across the cantons.

Switzerland announces expansion of fibre-optic internet

At a press conference on March 14, Communications Minister Albert Rösti (SVP) confirmed the launch of a new internet strategy in Switzerland. He explained that the scheme aims to provide super-fast broadband to urban, suburban and rural areas equally.

While Switzerland offers the 10th-fastest average internet speed in the world - according to a January 2025 study from Speedtest - there are still dramatic differences between cities and the countryside. When it comes to installing fibre-optic cables, which are essential for providing fast internet, Rösti noted that the country ranks mid-table compared to other European nations.

650.000 Swiss homes and businesses to be given super-fast WiFi

Therefore Rösti announced that a 730 million franc fund will be created to help install fibre-optic cables. While private internet and mobile providers will still take the lead in installing the systems, the state funding will be used in towns and areas where installing fibre-optic cables would not be profitable. 

Fibre-optic cables will be the primary tool to boost internet connections, though some wireless systems will be used in areas where costs are extremely high - such as up mountains. Once these unprofitable networks are built, every provider in the country will be able to use them.

In all, the Federal Council expects that 650.000 homes and businesses in 700 towns and cities will receive fast internet thanks to the fund. The proposal will now be open for consultation until June 2025.

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