Swiss survey: US maintains edge in competitiveness

"The U.S always seems to find the means to reinvent itself in ways that Japan -and much of Europe -often lacks," he said.

Rounding out the top 10 most competitive nations were Denmark, Australia, Canada, Sweden and the Netherlands. Slovenia rose eight places to 32nd -a jump matched by Poland, which is now 44th. Greece slipped the farthest, six places down to 42nd.

China and India both dropped two places in the report, to 17th and 29th, respectively. Russia fell four spots to 49th.

Venezuela was ranked last for the third year in a row, immediately preceded by Ukraine, South Africa, Argentina and Indonesia.