Jean-Daniel Pasche, President of the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry / Photo: DR

GENEVA, Oct 20, 2011 (AFP) - Swiss exports rose 2.5 percent to 16.6 billion francs (13.75 billion euros, $18.32 billion) in September despite the strong Swiss currency, with the watch and jewellery sectors leading the growth.

Watch exports were up 21 percent to 1.76 billion francs during the month, while jewellery exports jumped 56 percent to 697 million francs.

However, chemicals -- the biggest export sector, was down 1.8 percent during the month to 5.89 billion francs.

Likewise machinery also posted a drop of 3.3 percent in exports to 3.07 billion francs.

Overall imports meanwhile rose 0.7 percent to 14.8 billion francs, led by a 21.8 percent jump in demand for energy products.