Swiss Government Seeks Negotiated Solution to US 39% Tariffs Impacting Key Exports

The Swiss government and political parties have expressed strong criticism and concern over the new 39% tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on Swiss imports, which are set to take effect on August 7. The tariffs, which exceed initial proposals and target key sectors such as manufacturing, watchmaking, and exports to the United States, threaten tens of thousands of jobs and Switzerland's economic competitiveness. While the pharmaceutical sector has been exempted from the highest tariff rate, it still faces pressure from the U.S. to lower drug prices. Swiss political parties are divided on responses, with some advocating for strengthened competitiveness and free trade agreements with multiple countries, while others oppose closer alignment with the EU bureaucracy. Negotiations continue between Swiss officials and the U.S. government, but Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter reported no agreement was reached in recent talks, with the U.S. focus remaining on addressing its trade deficit with Switzerland. The Swiss government remains committed to finding a negotiated solution to mitigate the economic impact of these tariffs.