Swiss economy under pressure: US tariffs of 39% unjustified

The announced introduction of US tariffs of 39% on Swiss products from 7 August 2025 is neither economically nor security-related justified. The chemical and pharmaceutical industry – a key pillar of Switzerland's export economy – will also be affected. scienceindustries, business association Chemistry Pharma Life Sciences, calls on the Swiss authorities to continue their diplomatic efforts and to press for the measures to be withdrawn or mitigated.

The United States has announced that it will impose a basic tariff of 39 per cent on imports from Switzerland from 7 August 2025. This measure is neither justified nor comprehensible from an economic or security policy perspective – especially when compared to the significantly lower tariffs imposed on the EU (15 per cent) and the United Kingdom (10 per cent).

The disproportionately high tariffs pose massive challenges for Swiss companies. They make exports more expensive, undermine competitiveness in the international market and dampen the investment climate. This is a serious burden for many export companies in Switzerland's chemical, pharmaceutical and life sciences industries.

No economic or security-related basis for punitive tariffs

As a major investor, Switzerland plays a central role in the US economy and secures over 400,000 high-quality jobs. With the complete abolition of industrial tariffs, planned investments worth billions and initiatives for cooperation in vocational training, it is sending clear signals for a deeper economic partnership. As a reliable trading partner, Switzerland complies with all international export control standards and is consistently implementing additional measures requested by the US. Against this backdrop, there is no economic or trade policy basis for the introduction of such punitive tariffs.

Clear signal to Washington required

scienceindustries finds it extremely regrettable that it has not yet been possible to reach an agreement to avert or at least reduce the tariffs. The new measures pose a lasting threat to economic relations between the two countries, with negative consequences for both sides.

Pharmaceutical products are part of complex, globally networked supply chains. New tariffs would place a heavy burden on these structures, creating growing uncertainty for companies and serious risks for the supply of essential medicines, particularly in the US.

The Swiss government and economic diplomacy must now act quickly and decisively. The aim must be to find a swift and fair solution in the interests of both economies.

Securing Switzerland's competitiveness

At the same time, it is crucial to strengthen Switzerland's position as a business location under difficult conditions. Unnecessary regulations and additional financial burdens on companies must be consistently avoided. Draft legislation with potential additional burdens must be critically examined and revised if necessary. At the same time, targeted relief measures are needed to secure the long-term competitiveness of the Swiss economy.

Further information:

Stephan Mumenthaler, Director
Tel. 079 593 91 63, stephan.mumenthaler@scienceindustries.ch

Erik Jandrasits, Head of Foreign Trade
Tel. 079 473 66 33, erik.jandrasits@scienceindustries.ch