The Swiss industry association Swissmem has warned that the latest tariff increase announced by U.S. leadership on imports from all countries is adding to global economic uncertainty and undermining investment planning, particularly for export‑oriented manufacturers. The group said the move to raise temporary duties to 15 percent from 10 percent has created fresh instability for companies already grappling with earlier trade tensions.
The escalation follows a U.S. Supreme Court decision that struck down large portions of the previous tariff regime, prompting new levies to be introduced under an alternative legal authority. In response, the Swissmem group has described the business environment as chaotic, saying that unpredictable trade policy is dampening investment sentiment in Switzerland’s technology and engineering sectors.
Swiss exporters have already faced years of volatility. Tariffs imposed in 2025 had initially reached unusually high levels against Swiss goods, prompting government and industry concern. Last year, an agreement between Switzerland and the United States reduced those duties to 15 percent and aimed to provide a more stable basis for trade. However, the recent tariff revision has reignited worries about long‑term uncertainty.
Industry groups argue that constant changes in tariff policy increase risk for firms that rely heavily on integrated supply chains and predictable market access. Uncertainty over future duties can delay investment decisions, complicate pricing strategies, and erode competitiveness for Swiss goods in the large U.S. market.
Swiss officials are continuing talks to formalize a trade framework with the United States that could secure greater legal certainty for exporters and investors, but the situation remains fluid. Many businesses are monitoring developments closely, weighing the costs of enduring continued tariff swings against diversification of export markets and supply sources.
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