Switzerland US Tariff Talks 2025: President Keller-Sutter Heads to Washington

In a last-ditch effort to prevent steep U.S. trade penalties, Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter is leading a delegation to Washington. The emergency visit marks a critical phase in the Switzerland US tariff talks 2025, following the Trump administration’s announcement of a 39% tariff on Swiss goods.

Set to begin Thursday, the new tariff rate far exceeds those imposed on the European Union (15%) and the United Kingdom (10%). Swiss industries including chocolates, machinery, and watchmaking fear a severe blow.

Switzerland Responds to 39% Tariff Shock

The Swiss government confirmed the trip Tuesday, stating it was arranged “to facilitate meetings with U.S. authorities at short notice” and seek a solution to ease tariff burdens.

Last week, Trump raised tariffs on Swiss exports from a previously announced 31% to 39%. In comparison, only Laos, Myanmar, and Syria face higher rates at 40–41%.

Ivan Slatkine of the Federation of Romandie Enterprises called the new tariff “a hammer blow for the Swiss economy,” particularly for firms that rely on the U.S. market and compete against lower-taxed EU rivals.

Trump Claims Switzerland Unfairly Benefits

Trump, speaking Tuesday on CNBC, referenced a phone call with Keller-Sutter before the August 1 deadline. “The woman was nice, but she didn’t want to listen,” he said. “We have a $41 billion deficit with you, Madame, and you want to pay 1% tariffs.”

While the exact figure is disputed — U.S. Census data reports a $38.3 billion trade deficit — Trump used the call to justify the tariff hike.

Swiss Government Pushes for Dialogue

Following an emergency meeting of the Federal Council, Switzerland announced it would return to the negotiating table with “new approaches” to address U.S. concerns.

“Switzerland enters this new phase ready to present a more attractive offer,” the Council said, emphasizing its willingness to cooperate and protect bilateral trade.

Swiss officials also noted that American exports face virtually no tariffs in Switzerland, and that the Alpine nation is the sixth-largest foreign investor in the U.S. — and number one in research and development.

Impact on Swiss Industry

Some luxury watchmakers may weather the tariff storm, but many mid-level manufacturers, aerospace suppliers, and machinery producers are expected to feel the pressure.

“For all companies that depend on the American market, it’s really bad news,” Slatkine said. “Especially when compared to EU exporters, who face just 15%.”

The Switzerland US tariff talks 2025 now hinge on whether Keller-Sutter’s team can offer meaningful concessions in Washington. With tariffs taking effect Thursday, time is running out.

Source: AP News