Just hours after the framework announcement, the Swiss Federal Council used its official X (formerly Twitter) account to confirm that U.S. tariffs on Swiss exports “will be reduced to 15 %.” In a rare public nod, the post thanked President Donald Trump personally, underscoring how politically sensitive the issue had become for Switzerland’s export-heavy economy.
Economy Minister Parmelin told reporters that the cut applies with immediate effect under a provisional enforcement clause, meaning shipments leaving Swiss ports this weekend should already benefit. Customs brokers are being instructed to use a new ‘SW15’ tariff code pending U.S. Federal Register publication.
![Bern Confirms Immediate Tariff Relief, Thanks Trump for ‘Constructive Engagement’]()
For mobility stakeholders the announcement clears the path for managers to revive postponed short-term business trips and hand-carry deliveries that had been deemed cost-prohibitive. It also removes the need for contingency routing via EU subsidiaries, simplifying travel logistics and per-diem budgeting.
Parmelin hinted that Bern will roll out support measures for SMEs re-entering the U.S. market, including a CHF 20 million export-promotion fund that will reimburse up to 50 % of relocation expenses for staff seconded to newly established U.S. entities. Details are expected in December.
Companies are advised to update internal mobility guidelines to reflect the new tariff code and to brief travelling employees on revised carnet procedures.
Economy Minister Parmelin told reporters that the cut applies with immediate effect under a provisional enforcement clause, meaning shipments leaving Swiss ports this weekend should already benefit. Customs brokers are being instructed to use a new ‘SW15’ tariff code pending U.S. Federal Register publication.
For mobility stakeholders the announcement clears the path for managers to revive postponed short-term business trips and hand-carry deliveries that had been deemed cost-prohibitive. It also removes the need for contingency routing via EU subsidiaries, simplifying travel logistics and per-diem budgeting.
Parmelin hinted that Bern will roll out support measures for SMEs re-entering the U.S. market, including a CHF 20 million export-promotion fund that will reimburse up to 50 % of relocation expenses for staff seconded to newly established U.S. entities. Details are expected in December.
Companies are advised to update internal mobility guidelines to reflect the new tariff code and to brief travelling employees on revised carnet procedures.
