As cybersecurity threats grow in scale and sophistication, the European Union’s new NIS2 Directive is reshaping the regulatory landscape for digital resilience — and its impact extends far beyond EU borders.
For Swiss companies, especially those working with EU partners or operating in critical sectors, NIS2 is more than a foreign regulation — it’s a strategic reality that could affect partnerships, supply chains, and long-term competitiveness.
What Is NIS2?
The Network and Information Security Directive 2 (NIS2) is the EU’s updated cybersecurity law, which entered into force in January 2023 and must be transposed into national laws by October 2024.
It replaces the original NIS Directive (2016) and introduces:
- A broader scope: More sectors are now covered, including manufacturing, postal services, space, food production, and public administration.
- Stricter cybersecurity requirements: Companies must implement risk management, supply chain security, incident response, and business continuity planning.
- Mandatory reporting: Significant cyber incidents must be reported within 24 hours.
- Greater accountability: Senior management is held responsible for compliance.
- Harsher penalties: Fines can reach up to €10 million or 2% of global turnover, whichever is higher.
Why Should Swiss SMEs and Companies Care?
Switzerland is not part of the EU — but in a highly connected digital economy, compliance does not stop at borders.
Swiss businesses may be impacted if they:
- Provide services to EU-based clients
Clients in NIS2-covered sectors (e.g. healthcare, energy, finance) may require contractual NIS2 compliance from their third-party providers — including Swiss companies.
- Operate in critical sectors
Even if based in Switzerland, companies in transport, telecom, finance, digital infrastructure, and manufacturing are prime targets for cyberattacks — and may already be integrating NIS2-style requirements into their risk management.
- Participate in international supply chains
If you’re part of a multi-national value chain, you may face NIS2-related due diligence and compliance pressure — whether directly or indirectly.
- Want to future-proof their business
Aligning with NIS2 puts your company ahead of regulatory trends, strengthens trust with European partners, and improves overall cyber resilience.
How Can Your Business Prepare for NIS2?
Whether or not you’re directly subject to NIS2, the directive outlines cybersecurity best practices that every organization should consider adopting.
1. Assess Your Cybersecurity Risks
- Conduct regular risk assessments of your IT infrastructure.
- Identify and map your critical assets, dependencies, and potential points of failure.
2. Implement Incident Response & Reporting Plans
- Set up a clear process for detecting, escalating, and reporting security incidents.
- Prepare to notify relevant partners or authorities within 24 hours of a major event.
3. Secure Your Supply Chain
- Vet vendors and partners for their cybersecurity maturity.
- Ensure that third-party services do not become weak links in your infrastructure.
4. Strengthen Governance & Accountability
- Involve executive leadership in cybersecurity planning.
- Assign a security officer or responsible lead for compliance oversight.
5. Raise Awareness Across Your Organization
- Offer training to employees on phishing, password hygiene, and safe practices.
- Make cybersecurity part of the company culture — not just an IT issue.
Looking Ahead
The NIS2 Directive represents a ****new benchmark for digital security in Europe — and a wake-up call for companies in neighboring countries like Switzerland.
For Swiss SMEs, preparing now is a competitive advantage. Not only does it reduce legal and operational risks, but it also sends a strong message to partners and customers: We take cybersecurity seriously — and we’re ready for what’s next.
- We can help you become FADP compliant!
Expert Guidance, Affordable Solutions, and a Seamless Path to Compliance
