An inspirational mix of the down-to-earth rural spirit, internationalism and open-mindedness

An inspirational mix of the down-to-earth rural spirit, internationalism and open-mindedness is Basel-Landschaft’s main asset. Its unique location in the German-French-Swiss border triangle has contributed to shaping this spirit throughout the centuries.

Basel-Landschaft offers the best of two worlds: One that is local, rural, and traditional and one that is urban, borderless and international. In Basel-Landschaft, these two worlds meet to form a unique business location. The watch-making industry in the remote Waldenburg valley is a case in point. It is proof of a long tradition that links local and rural bases to external trends and influences.

A large part of Basel-Landschaft has always been rural and its inhabitants remain down-to-earth to this day. Their strong work ethic is a major asset of the working population. Absolute integrity, high job satisfaction and productivity contribute to keeping the unemployment rate at a low level, and the social security and administration costs at a moderate level. These factors also contribute to political stability, a clean environment and public order.

Basel-Landschaft is part of German-speaking Switzerland, but English and/or French is widely spoken. Children are taught both languages at primary school. Nearly one fifth of the permanent resident population in Basel-Landschaft has its origins elsewhere in Europe. This is due to its location in the German-French-Swiss border triangle and its international linkage. Some 40,000 expatriates live in the Basel area, some 66,000 persons commute daily across the French or German border. Work and business are not the only aspects that have gone global: The international art fair, Art Basel, with its sister events in Miami Florida and Hongkong, or the Basel Tattoo with its Scottish origins are cases in point.

Canton of Basel-Landschaft

• Nearly one fifth of the permanent resident population with origins elsewhere in Europe
• Most come from either Germany or Italy (4% each)
• >19,000 persons/day commute from Alsace and the German South Baden area, and work in Basel-Landschaft

Economic Region Basel

• 40,000 expatriates
• 66,000 persons/day commute from Alsace and the German South Baden area, to Basel area
• International businesses, partly with export quotas of over 90% and over 40% non-Swiss staff