What does MWST stand for?
Was bedeutet MWST?
Correct answer: C
- A Meinungsfreiheit (freedom of opinion)Meinungsfreiheit
- B mittlerer Wohlstand (average prosperity)mittlerer Wohlstand
- C Mehrwertsteuer (value added tax)Mehrwertsteuer
- D Mass für Wasserstand in Flüssen (measure of water level in rivers)Mass für Wasserstand in Flüssen
Why
MWST means Mehrwertsteuer (value added tax). It is included in the price of many goods. The standard rate is 8.1 percent.
Common mistakes
- B: mittlerer Wohlstand (average prosperity)
- The abbreviation has nothing to do with prosperity. «ST» stands for Steuer (tax).
Topic
With taxes, the state pays for its tasks, for example schools, roads, the police and social assistance. You pay taxes to the Confederation, the canton and the municipality. How much you pay depends on your taxable income and your assets. Anyone who earns or owns more pays more. Nationality or party membership play no role.
Living in Switzerland
Taxes and family support
Sources
Last checked: September 2026
Question 180 of the official question list of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.