Archive · 6 Nov 2025
Swiss Finance Minister: US Tariff Deal Hinges on Trump's Decision
Imagine Switzerland and the U.S. are friends, but the U.S. put a big extra charge, like a special tax, on things coming from Switzerland.
Switzerland's finance leader, Karin Keller-Sutter, is talking to the U.S. President, Donald Trump, to try and get rid of this extra charge.
She already talked to him, and some Swiss business leaders also met with him.
But President Trump didn't like the deal Switzerland offered, and he has the final say on whether to lower the taxes.
So, Switzerland is still trying to make a deal, but it's up to the U.S. President to decide if it happens.
Swiss Finance Minister Karin Keller-Sutter stated that a trade deal with the U.S. depends on President Trump's decision.
Switzerland is continuing efforts to achieve a more favorable trade relationship with the U.S. following the imposition of 39% tariffs.
A delegation of Swiss business leaders met with President Trump at the White House to discuss the impact of U.S. tariffs.
Swiss companies like Rolex, Richemont, and MSC were represented in the meeting with Trump.
The Swiss government welcomed the initiative by the business leaders and diplomatic exchanges are ongoing.
- Who
- Swiss Finance Minister Karin Keller-Sutter, Swiss corporate bosses, U.S. President Donald Trump
- What
- Ongoing efforts by Switzerland to secure a more favorable trade relationship with the U.S. and reduce tariffs imposed by Trump.
- When
- Earlier this week (meeting with Trump), Thursday (Keller-Sutter's comments)
- Where
- White House (meeting), Switzerland/U.S. (trade relationship)
- Why
- The U.S. imposed high tariffs on Swiss imports, impacting Swiss companies and the economy.
Switzerland's Position
US Position
Tariff Agreement
Switzerland's Position
Switzerland seeks a more favorable trade relationship and a reduction in US tariffs.
US Position
President Trump did not agree with the negotiated agreement and ultimately decides on any deal.
Role of Swiss President
Switzerland's Position
The Swiss Finance Minister stated she fulfilled her duties as President when speaking to Trump before the tariffs.
US Position
N/A (US perspective on this specific action not mentioned).
- Tariff Rate
- 39% on Swiss imports
- Swiss Companies Involved
- MSC, Rolex, Partners Group, Mercuria, Richemont, MKS
- Meeting with Trump
- Tuesday in the White House
- Swiss Finance Minister
- Karin Keller-Sutter