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U.S. Tariffs on Swiss Goods: What Companies Need to Know
Tariffs in Force
Since 7 August 2025, the U.S. has imposed a 39% tariff on a wide range of Swiss exports, including watches, machinery, metals, and food products. While the pharmaceutical sector is currently less affected, the measures put significant pressure on exporters, especially SMEs.
🔗 SECO:  Switzerland–USA Economic Relations
Switzerland abolished all industrial tariffs on 1 January 2024, making imports into Switzerland tariff-free. But for exporters, U.S. tariffs are already creating price increases and uncertainty across sectors. Industry voices, including economiesuisse, warn that up to 100,000 jobs could be affected if measures persist.
Support for Companies
To cushion the impact, Kurzarbeit (short-time work compensation) is available as a labour market instrument:
đź”— SECO: Kurzarbeit bei US-ZöllenÂ
🔗 SECO: Übersicht Kurzarbeitsentschädigung (Allgemeines)
🔗 Arbeitgeberverband: US-Zölle - Arbeitsmarkt stabilisieren mit Kurzarbeitsentschädigung
How to Stay Informed
We advise you to regularly monitor:
đź”—Â SECO for trade policy updates
đź”— Federal Customs Administration (FCA) for tariff codes and customs guidance
Hear from our Member, Boldt BPI
Our member, Boldt BPI, in their article A resilient corporate narrative will help to weather the tariffs storm, highlights the need for companies to remain resilient by closely monitoring developments, updating communications, and reassuring stakeholders. Clear, adaptable narratives are essential to protecting reputation and maintaining stability amid shifting global trade dynamics.
