The economy of Valais is expected to grow by 1.4% in 2024, following a 1.0% increase in 2023. This growth is slightly lower than the average for Switzerland, which is projected to be 1.2% for 2023 and 1.0% for 2024, after adjusting for sporting events.
The strength of the Swiss franc and declining global demand are contributing to a slight economic slowdown in certain sectors. Employment growth in Valais is expected to continue in 2023, but at a slower pace compared to previous years, with a forecasted increase of 1.0% in full-time equivalent jobs for 2024. This is below the national average of 1.4%.
The hotel and restaurant sector is predicted to experience significant growth of 12.7% in 2023, followed by capital goods at 2.9% and construction at 4.9%. However, the capital goods industry is expected to decline by 4.2% in 2024 due to weak global demand, while the growth of the construction sector will slow to just 0.5%. The chemical-pharmaceutical sector is also showing positive growth of 3.2%, alongside financial services, which are up by 3.0% in real terms.