Switzerland has announced that it will delay the automatic exchange of information on crypto-assets under the OECD’s Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) until at least January 2027. The decision follows a review by the Swiss federal government and represents a departure from the country’s previously stated timeline, which envisaged the first exchanges taking place in 2026.
CARF, introduced by the OECD to bring transparency to crypto-asset holdings and transactions, places reporting obligations on crypto-service providers. Entities with a nexus to Switzerland will be required to conduct due diligence, report financial account information, and register with the Swiss authorities. The legislative basis for CARF will still be enacted in 2026, but the provisions related to crypto-asset reporting under the Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) ordinance will not apply during that year.
The postponement is understood to be linked to ongoing discussions between Switzerland and 74 partner jurisdictions regarding data security and confidentiality standards. These jurisdictions include all EU Member States, the United Kingdom and most G20 countries. The Swiss National Council’s Economic Affairs and Taxation Committee has recently withdrawn from negotiations, delaying Switzerland’s ability to activate the exchange.
The Federal Council has also expanded the scope of the existing Common Reporting Standard (CRS), extending it to Swiss associations and foundations. These entities may be excluded from AEOI if they meet specific conditions, but they will now be directly within the CRS framework as part of Switzerland’s broader effort to align with international tax transparency standards.
For private clients and corporates with exposure to crypto-assets, the delay provides additional time to assess reporting obligations, review holding structures and ensure compliance with the forthcoming regime. Switzerland remains committed to implementing CARF, and the regulatory landscape will continue to evolve as the final rules are confirmed.
Alpadis will continue to monitor developments closely across Switzerland and other key markets. Our teams advise individuals, family offices and corporates on cross-border compliance, asset structuring and regulatory obligations. For guidance on preparing for CARF or understanding its impact on your structures, please contact our Switzerland or Singapore offices.
