"The exports were remarkably resilient in light of the appreciation of the Swiss franc, Hildebrand told journalists in Geneva.

Earlier on Tuesday, data showed Swiss exports had remained robust in February, rising 16 percent in real terms from a year earlier, the Federal Customs Office said.

The franc has hit new record highs against the dollar this month, helped by its appeal as a safe haven currency during turmoil in the Middle East and North Africa and Japan's devastating earthquake and nuclear crisis.

Last week, the central bank left its interest rate target unchanged at ultra low levels, saying price stability was secured in the short term.

It also raised its 2011 growth forecast to around 2.0 percent from 1.5 percent.