Switzerland has so far failed to conclude an agreement to reduce American customs duties. As of now, it is subject to a disproportionate basic rate of 39 percent. These new customs duties hit the Swiss economy turned towards export. They strongly weaken the international competitiveness of our businesses on the American market, compromise long -standing established commercial relations and are seriously in danger of thousands of jobs. The risk weighing on our economic place is considerably increased.
Continue discussions with the United States, an absolute priority
The Federal Council is called upon to continue negotiations with the United States by granting them the highest priority. It is imperative to quickly achieve an agreement to reduce customs duties. The challenges are considerable for Swiss companies: without sustainable settlement of this issue, they may undergo significant competitive disadvantages on their first export market – as the United States.
In this context, caution is in the face of these high customs duties. To achieve a agreement as quickly as possible, it is essential that the government and economic circles are united. A coordinated approach is essential. Economiesuisse pleads in favor of a global approach to resolve the customs issue. It is not acceptable that certain economic sectors are put in competition against each other.
A measure of measures is necessary to strengthen the economic place
Swiss policy must also act with determination. A measure of measures is necessary to strengthen the Swiss economic place. The economy should not be more restricted and penalized by new laws and ordinances. It is also important to reduce the costs of costs on businesses and employees.
At the same time, Switzerland, as an open economy, depends on the best possible access to markets around the world. It is essential to guarantee secure access to the EU internal market and to conclude free trade agreements on a global scale. Their rapid entry into force with Mercosur, Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia, as well as an update of those concluded with China and Mexico, are decisive.