It was announced that the consulate would close in 2012 as part of a government-mandating downsizing of the Swiss diplomatic presence to reduce expenses.[4] Although the decision was protested by the Swiss Club of Chicago, who petitioned for the consulate to stay open,[5] and debates were held in the Swiss Parliament to re-evaluate the cutbacks in general,[6] the shutdown was ultimately approved, with Parliament deciding that an honorary consulate would be set up in its place.[7] The mission was closed as planned in 2014, with the Washington, D.C. and New York missions taking on its consular duties.[5] However, increased Swiss investment in Chicago and surrounding areas led to an announcement in 2018 that the consulate would be reopened.