Switzerland Leads 2025 Digital Competitiveness Ranking
Switzerland retains its position as the world leader in digital competitiveness, topping the 2025 IMD World Digital Competitiveness Ranking (WDCR). It is followed by the United States and Singapore in this annual assessment conducted by the Institute for Management Development (IMD) based in Lausanne.
Ranking Overview and Criteria
The IMD ranking evaluates 69 economies on their ability to adopt and leverage digital technologies for economic and social progress. Switzerland’s top position highlights its robust digital infrastructure, strong education system, and vibrant innovation ecosystem.
Challenges and Risks to Switzerland’s Lead
“Digitally speaking, Switzerland has experienced two important developments so far this year: the cataclysmic effects of tariff changes and the approval of e-ID by a razor-thin margin (50.4% in favor),” said Arturo Bris, Director of IMD’s World Competitiveness Center (WCC). “It’s clear that the Swiss aren’t as prepared as we might have hoped to embrace the challenges of technology today.”
IMD experts warn that escalating global trade fragmentation and changing regulatory environments could jeopardize Switzerland’s digital leadership in the near future.
Impact of Global Trade Tensions
Trade tensions increasingly affect essential aspects of digital competitiveness, including data flows, technical standards, and investment priorities worldwide. These factors play a growing role in shaping the global digital economy.
Key Points:
- Switzerland ranked first in the 2025 IMD WDCR.
- The United States and Singapore follow in second and third places.
- Switzerland’s strengths: digital infrastructure, education, innovation ecosystems.
- Risks include tariff impacts and narrowly approved e-ID measures.
- Global trade tensions threaten cross-border data, standards, and investments.
Author’s summary: Switzerland leads the 2025 IMD digital competitiveness ranking, yet faces risks from trade disputes and evolving regulations that may challenge its top position.