Commission Proposes Safeguard Measures for Workers from Ionizing Radiation Exposure Risks
Switzerland Seeks to Reduce U.S. Tariffs on Exports
Switzerland is in negotiations with the United States to reduce the 39% tariffs imposed on Swiss imports, which were set by President Trump citing an unbalanced trade deficit. The Swiss Government has been actively seeking to lower this tariff rate, with Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter proposing a 10% tariff rate during diplomatic talks.
However, this proposal was rejected by U.S. officials. The Swiss Government has not disclosed any detailed counteroffer beyond the 10% tariff proposal. The negotiations, which have been ongoing since the initial joint declaration of intent, are expected to continue beyond the agreed timeline.
The Swiss Government has convened emergency meetings to strategize next steps and avoid substantial harm to Swiss exports, which include watches, chocolate, and machinery. Swiss officials have emphasized their willingness to consider U.S. concerns but have also rejected the fairness of the high tariff given the deep trade relations between the two countries.
The U.S. insists on a tariff that reflects the trade deficit, while Switzerland insists its concessions are meaningful and the U.S. position is unfair. Despite the tensions, Switzerland has chosen not to retaliate against the U.S. tariffs.
The Swiss Federal Council (the Swiss Government) met on August 4 to discuss the ongoing negotiations and the potential counteroffer from Switzerland. The Swiss Government aims to continue negotiations with the U.S. beyond the existing joint declaration of intent and even after August 7, when the tariffs come into effect.
The Swiss approach towards the U.S. tariffs is to negotiate without retaliation. The Swiss Government's counteroffer to the U.S. is intended to address U.S. concerns and improve the tariff situation. The negotiations between Switzerland and the U.S. do not involve retaliatory measures from Switzerland.
The Swiss Government's counteroffer in the negotiations aims to address concerns within the finance industry, particularly the tariff imposed on Swiss exports to the United States. Despite its rejection, the Swiss Government remains committed to lowering tariffs in the business sector, as high tariffs could harm Swiss exports in finance, such as watches and machinery.
