US slashes tariffs on Swiss exports, reversing 12.5% levy

Washington’s sudden pivot offers relief to Swiss exporters hit by higher duties this week, though the durability of the truce remains uncertain.

By Handelsavisen Newsroom · Automated 2026-07-24 14:17 UTC · 1 min read

The United States has sharply reduced tariffs on Swiss goods, reversing the 12.5% baseline duty that took effect earlier this week.

The move marks a rapid shift in Washington’s trade posture, offering immediate relief to Swiss exporters who were bracing for a sustained period of higher costs.

5% levy was imposed following the expiration of a temporary legal framework governing trade terms.

The new lower rates apply to a broad range of Swiss products, effectively neutralizing the penalty that had placed Swiss goods at a disadvantage compared to European Union exports.

While the specific mechanics of the reduction are still being clarified, the immediate impact is a restoration of competitive pricing for Swiss manufacturers and service providers in the US market.

The reversal comes just days after the 12.5% levy was imposed following the expiration of a temporary legal framework governing trade terms.

That initial increase had sparked concern across Swiss industry groups, which warned of potential supply chain disruptions and margin compression.