Rooted in 1985
The Vision That Started It All
In 1985, a group of visionary leaders saw a need: a unified platform to connect Swiss and Turkish businesses; not just for trade, but for shared growth, mutual understanding, and lasting partnerships. Their vision became reality when Prime Minister Turgut Özal officially inaugurated C.C.I.S.T. in 1985, marking the birth of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Switzerland-Türkiye.
What began as a bold idea has grown into a powerful network of 200+ members, 30+ partners, and 10+ annual events, all driven by one mission: to empower businesses and uplift communities across borders.
Members
Annual Events
Years of Expertise
OUR STORY
Four Decades of Impact
Over 40 years, C.C.I.S.T. has evolved from a small chamber into a leading voice for the Swiss-Turkish business community. We’ve:
• Advocated for policies that benefit local enterprises
• Connected businesses through networking, trade missions, and events
• Trained hundreds in international trade and business skills
• Supported education and disaster relief in Türkiye
• Built bridges; not just between countries, but between people
Our Journey Through Time
1985
The Foundation
Building a bridge between Swiss and Turkish economies
1999
Solidarity in Action
School rebuilt in Yalova after the earthquake
2000s
Expansion of Business Network
Becoming a key platform for bilateral business dialogue and partnership
2019
Global Recognition
Founder member of AICC
2025
Solidarity in Action
Major partner of the Malatya Arguvan Education Center
NOTES FROM THE ARCHIVE
Official establishment date: February 24, 1987
Existence: 17.07.1985
* Anton Kalberer – UBS Zurich Management, Vice President
* Emmanuel Staufer – Lawyer
* Duygu Şedöl – SBS Management, Vice President
* Nihat Ersin – İş Bankası, Director of Zurich
* Nicolas Sanchez – Kofisa Managing director
* Bülent Özsoy – İş Bankası, Director of Zurich
A photo from the first Board of Directors meetings: Henry Fauche, Emmanuel Staufer, Anton Kalberer.
The computer room we gave to a school after the 1999 earthquake in Türkiye. There was only one internet connection in the district, it was shared with the district governor.
