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The European directive on corporate sustainability reporting, known as the CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive), was significantly revised by the “Omnibus I” package, which was definitively adopted and entered into force on March 18, 2026. This revision greatly simplifies reporting requirements and reduces the administrative burden on businesses. If you run a business in Switzerland, it is essential to understand how these changes affect you, both directly and indirectly.
What is the CSRD, and what changes have been adopted?
The CSRD is a European Union directive designed to harmonize and strengthen sustainability reporting requirements for companies. Its main objective is to improve the transparency and comparability of information relating to environmental, social and governance (ESG) aspects.
The “Omnibus I” package, which amends the CSRD, was adopted by the European Parliament on December 16, 2025, approved by the Council of the EU on February 24, 2026, published in the Official Journal on February 26, 2026 (Directive (EU) 2026/470) and entered into force on March 18, 2026. Here are the main changes that were adopted:
- Application thresholds raised: Reporting requirements now apply only to companies with more than 1,000 employees AND at least 450 million euros in net revenue, compared with 250 employees previously. This measure reduces the number of companies subject to the directive by approximately 90 percent.
- Simplification of reporting requirements: The information to be disclosed has been simplified, with the elimination of sector-specific standards and a reduction in the number of ESRS data points to be collected.
- Extension of Deadlines: The new rules apply to fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2027, with the first reports expected in 2028; their definitive entry into force in each country depends on the transposition of the directive into national law.
Direct impact on Swiss companies
Although Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, Swiss companies operating within the EU or having subsidiaries in EU member states may be directly affected by the CSRD. The adopted amendments have the following implications:
- Modification of eligibility criteria: If your company has more than 1,000 employees and at least 450 million euros in revenue, and operates in the EU, it remains subject to the CSRD requirements. If it falls below these thresholds, it is now exempt.
- Adaptation by Subsidiaries: Swiss subsidiaries of European groups that are still subject to the CSRD will need to align their reporting with the new standards, which may require adjustments to the collection and presentation of ESG data.
Indirect impact on Swiss companies
Even if your company is not directly subject to the CSRD, the changes made may have indirect implications:
- Relationships with Business Partners: Large European companies, which remain subject to the CSRD, will likely require ESG information from their suppliers and partners—including those in Switzerland—in order to meet their own reporting obligations.
- Competitive pressure: Swiss companies could feel increased pressure to adopt similar reporting practices in order to remain competitive on the European market.
Challenges for Swiss companies
The adopted amendments to the CSRD pose several challenges for Swiss companies:
- Understanding new requirements: Keeping abreast of regulatory developments is crucial to anticipating the potential impact on your business.
- Setting up appropriate reporting systems: Even in the absence of legal obligation, having a robust ESG reporting system in place can facilitate business relations with European partners.
- Training and awareness-raising: Make sure your teams are trained in ESG issues and new reporting practices to ensure effective integration of requirements.
Opportunities Arising from Changes to the CSRD
Despite the challenges, these developments also offer opportunities.
- Market differentiation: A Swiss company with a proactive approach to sustainability can stand out from the competition and strengthen its reputation.
- Access to new financing: With investors increasingly attentive to ESG criteria, transparent reporting can facilitate access to funds dedicated to sustainability.
- Anticipating future regulations: Voluntary compliance with European standards can prepare your company for future Swiss regulations aligned with those of the EU.
Recommended steps for Swiss companies
To effectively navigate this changing landscape, consider the following actions:
- Assessing Your Current Situation: Determine whether your company is directly or indirectly affected by the CSRD changes.
- Stakeholder dialogue: Engage in discussions with your business partners to understand their ESG reporting expectations.
- Set up an action plan: Develop a strategy for collecting, analyzing and publishing relevant ESG information, even if this is not yet a legal requirement.
- Regulatory watch: Keep abreast of legislative developments in Switzerland and the EU to anticipate changes and adapt your strategy accordingly.
To conclude
The Omnibus I package, which was definitively adopted and entered into force on March 18, 2026, significantly simplifies sustainability reporting requirements and reduces the number of European companies subject to the CSRD by approximately 90 percent, thereby easing the administrative burden for many companies. However, for Swiss companies, these changes mean an increased need for vigilance and adaptation—both to meet the expectations of European business partners still subject to the directive and to prepare for potential changes in national regulations.
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