Despite tough follow-up negotiations with the US administration, Switzerland was unable to reach a better solution in the tariff dispute with the USA. Swissmem wishes to thank the Federal Council and the government for their considerable commitment. Swissmem President Martin Hirzel emphasizes: “The negotiations must nevertheless continue, as the wind in Washington may change direction at any time. This is shown by the US President’s renewed threat to introduce tariffs of 35% on the EU. Legal certainty and predictability are hardly likely to return in the next few years even with agreements”.
Time to stand together!
Switzerland earns one out of two francs in foreign trade. If the export industry is ailing, the prosperity of the population as a whole is threatened. There will not be enough money for social security, the healthcare system and to maintain infrastructure. This will then also pose a threat to jobs in domestic market sectors such as the hospitality industry, hospitals, retail trade and construction. Swissmem Director Stefan Brupbacher says: “Since 1 August 2025, the world is a different place than before Liberation Day. Switzerland now has to demonstrate its strengths: politicians, the business sector and society as a whole must support the export industry – for the good of us all”.
Swissmem is calling for the following ten measures to support the export industry:
- Extend short-time work
The maximum permitted period for short-time work compensation needs to be increased to 24 months in order to avoid mass layoffs. - Promote innovation
Innosuisse is set to greatly increase its project financing and to forego the company contribution as of 2026. - No increase in non-wage labour costs
Expanding social expenses via higher non-wage labour costs is no longer viable for companies. - Amend the War Materiel Act
The National Council has to approve the revision of the War Materiel Act proposed by the Council of States. Only this will again allow exports of armaments to partner countries and strengthen confidence in Switzerland. - No exaggerated climate policy
The COâ‚‚ reduction pathway stipulated by the Federal Council is unrealistic and is a threat to industry. Companies could be forced to close as a result. - No COâ‚‚ carbon border adjustment mechanism
Switzerland must not copy the EU's industry-hostile climate policy. A CO2 carbon border adjustment destroys sales markets and endangers Switzerland as a production location. - Secure economically viable electricity prices
Industrial companies need electricity at economically viable prices and stable networks. The current network cost allocation mechanism must be retained. Market-based feed-in rates and an electricity agreement with the EU are key. - No investment screening act
An investment screening act only creates bureaucracy and deters foreign investors. Strategically important infrastructures are already securely state-owned. - Expand free trade
The new free trade agreements (Mercosur, Thailand, Malaysia) must be ratified promptly, and existing agreements (China, Japan) improved. - Support Bilaterals III
The Bilaterals III are indispensable for stable relations with the EU.
For further information please contact:
Noé Blancpain, Member of Management and Head of Communications and Public Affairs
Tel. +41 44 384 48 65 / mobile +41 78 748 61 63
E-mail n.blancpainnoSpam@swissmem.ch
Philippe Cordonier, Member of Management and Head of Swissmem Romandie
Tel. +41 44 384 42 30 / mobile +41 79 644 46 77
E-mail p.cordoniernoSpam@swissmem.ch