Switzerland secures major U.S. tariff cuts—but where was its ‘Trump whisperer’?
Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter, known as the 'Trump whisperer' after a notable phone call, was notably absent when a crucial tariff deal with the U.S. was finalized. Economics Minister Guy Parmelin took the lead in presenting the agreement to the media.
The new tariff agreement, announced on August 1, slashed U.S. tariffs on Swiss goods from 39% to 15%. This significant reduction comes after months of negotiations led by Keller-Sutter, who had earned a reputation for her effective communication with U.S. President Donald Trump.
The deal was first announced by U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, with the Swiss Federal Council confirming afterward. Keller-Sutter and Parmelin had met with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bassent in May to secure favorable terms. However, a trip to the U.S. in early August to finalize the agreement ended without success, leaving Parmelin to present the deal alone.
State Secretary for Economics Helene Budliger Artieda played a key role in the negotiations, serving as a crucial link between Swiss business leaders and U.S. officials. The agreement follows punitive tariffs of 31% imposed by the U.S. in April due to Switzerland's trade surplus.
The new tariff agreement, despite Keller-Sutter's absence at the final announcement, is a substantial achievement for Switzerland, significantly reducing tariffs on its goods in the U.S. market. The Swiss government's collective efforts, led by Keller-Sutter and Parmelin, have resulted in a more favorable trading environment.
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