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Trump Meets Swiss Business Chiefs, Tasks Trade Representative to Pursue Tariff Talks

Swiss officials describe a private business initiative pressing for relief from 39% U.S. tariffs.

Shipping containers are loaded onto a ship at the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro, California, U.S., November 5, 2025. REUTERS/Mike Blake
The logo of Swiss watch manufacturer Rolex is seen on a store during the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 21, 2025. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo
U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to members of the media aboard Air Force One as he departs for Florida from Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, U.S., October 31, 2025. REUTERS/Elizabeth Frantz/File Photo
Switzerland's President Karin Keller-Sutter  arrives on the day of the European Political Community summit in Copenhagen, Denmark, October 2, 2025. Thomas Traasdahl/Ritzau Scanpix/via REUTERS

Overview

  • Trump said the meeting concluded with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer designated to continue negotiations with Swiss leaders.
  • Bern said several executives organized the Washington meeting to highlight the impact of the tariffs, describing it as a private initiative prepared with SECO.
  • Switzerland’s economy ministry said participants included leaders from MSC, Rolex, Partners Group, Mercuria, Richemont and MKS, while the White House has not detailed attendees.
  • Switzerland has pitched investment and deficit‑reduction proposals to secure a lower rate, but Karin Keller‑Sutter says the timing of a deal remains uncertain and the decision rests with Trump.
  • The 39% duties, imposed in August, cover less than 10% of Swiss exports yet are pressuring watches and machinery, with Bern trimming its 2026 growth outlook and U.S.-bound watch shipments falling 55% in September.