Swiss Diplomacy: Efforts to Reduce Trump’s Heavy Tariffs

Fri Nov 14 2025 02:13:09 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Swiss officials engage in a diplomatic charm offensive, aiming to reduce the steep tariffs imposed by the Trump administration that have negatively impacted Switzerland's economy.

As Swiss ministers visit Washington, their latest initiative includes high-profile gifts to U.S. President Trump in an effort to negotiate a reduction of the 39% tariffs on Swiss exports, which have strained their economy. following the initial resistance from Trump, recent discussions with business leaders indicate a possible softening stance from the president.

Swiss ministers are in Washington for talks aimed at slashing US President Donald Trump's steep 39% tariffs on Switzerland's exports to the US – the highest rate in Europe.

Initial attempts by Swiss President Karin Keller Sutter to change Trump's mind fell on deaf ears. However, a visit by business leaders appears to have made headway.

Swiss industry chiefs came to the Oval Office on 4 November bearing gifts including a Rolex gold watch and a specially engraved gold bar from Swiss-based gold refining company MKS.

Months of efforts by the Swiss to reduce these high tariffs have taken a toll on their economy.

Trump's earlier response to President Sutter's overtures hinted at a dismissal, stating that she was a nice woman, but she did not want to listen. Nevertheless, last week's private business initiative took a more unconventional route.

After meetings, Swiss industrialists expressed optimism, stating: Our entire initiative was undertaken in the spirit of Swiss unity between the private and public sectors. The talks have led to Trump suggesting that negotiations are underway to lower tariffs, though no specific figures were proposed.

Business figures involved, particularly in the luxury goods sector, had existing contacts with Trump's inner circle, enhancing their attempts to influence the president. Notably, Trump had recently been seen with Rolex's chief executive at the US Open, bringing more visibility to their connections.

Gifts such as a Rolex desk clock presented to Trump have spurred rumors of a favorable shift in his attitude towards the Swiss tariffs. Following a meeting, a White House official confirmed the gifts were received, highlighting the transactional nature of these diplomatic interactions.

The situation remains dynamic with Swiss economy minister Guy Parmelin expressing renewed hope, suggesting tariffs could soon align more closely with those faced by Switzerland's EU neighbors. Proposals to increase Swiss pharmaceutical investments in the US are also on the table, providing potential bargaining chips.

As the Swiss community awaits further developments, influential figures like FIFA president Gianni Infantino, a close friend of Trump, might play an essential role in facilitating negotiations, particularly in light of upcoming international events.