Mechanical engineering Swissmem calls on the Federal Council to act quickly
The US tariffs are likely to hit the Swiss mechanical, electrical and metal industry "very hard", the industry umbrella organization Swissmem announced on Thursday. The Federal Council and companies should now act quickly, but keep a "cool head".
03.04.2025, 09:49
SDA
"Swissmem is deeply disappointed by the US government's decision to impose blanket tariffs of 31% on products from the Swiss tech industry", the press release continued. The decision is incomprehensible, especially since Switzerland had already lifted all industrial tariffs in 2024. The new tariffs would further exacerbate the already tense economic situation.
Swift action required from the Federal Council
The association is therefore calling on the Federal Council to "act quickly to at least reduce the tariffs and facilitate access to other markets". Companies should also be supported domestically, for example by simplifying or extending short-time working.
In addition, the free trade agreement with India should come into force as soon as possible after the referendum deadline. The conclusion of the free trade agreement with Mercosur and the extension of the agreement with China would also be a high priority. The Bilaterals III would also gain in importance. The relationship with the EU's most important trading partner must be settled quickly.
Loss of competitiveness
As the tariffs against the EU are only 20 percent, Swiss industry is losing relative competitiveness on the US market compared to EU companies. "Swissmem therefore expects a massive reduction in exports of goods from the tech industry to the USA," it says.
SMEs without a production site in the USA are particularly challenged. "If their products are not indispensable, they risk losing an important sales market," says the association.
However, companies and politicians should proceed with a "cool head". Especially as 85% of exports go to countries other than the USA. With a share of 55 percent, the EU is significantly more important. Other markets in South America and Asia could also become more important for companies.
