Switzerland pushes for lower U.S. tariffs in high-stakes Washington talks
Swiss officials, led by Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, have arrived in Washington, D.C. for crucial talks with U.S. representatives. The aim is to reduce the current 39 percent tariffs on Swiss imports, potentially aligning with the 15 percent rate applied to the EU. U.S. President Trump has signaled openness to this reduction.
The negotiations, entering a decisive phase, will begin today with initial discussions between the Swiss delegation, headed by Helene Budliger Artieda of the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. While a breakthrough is considered unlikely by the end of the day, Federal Councillor Albert Rösti has expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far, hoping for a better tariffs arrangement for Swiss cheese exports.
The talks come after President Trump recently signaled potential tariffs reductions for Switzerland. The current 39 percent tariffs have been a barrier for Swiss exports, and a reduction to 15 percent could significantly boost trade between the two nations.
The outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain, but Swiss officials are optimistic about the potential benefits of a tariffs reduction. The talks are expected to continue, with further updates to follow. The Swiss delegation, led by Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, will engage with U.S. representatives to work towards a mutually beneficial agreement.
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