Core Viewpoint - The recent imposition of a 39% import tariff by the United States on Switzerland has plunged the Swiss economy into a dual crisis of economic and diplomatic challenges, prompting urgent diplomatic efforts that ultimately failed to yield results [1][3][5]. Economic Impact - The 39% tariff is significant as Switzerland relies heavily on exports to the U.S., with exports to the U.S. accounting for one-sixth of its total exports [1]. - Swiss economists warn that such high tariffs could lead to severe economic recession for Switzerland, which is heavily dependent on exports [3]. - Specific sectors, such as the Gruyère cheese industry, face dire consequences, with 40% of its production exported and one-third of that going to the U.S. [3]. - The Swiss Business Association has indicated that the implementation of the 39% tariff could jeopardize tens of thousands of jobs in Switzerland [3]. Diplomatic Efforts - In response to the tariff, Swiss Federal President Keller-Sutter and Vice President Guy Parmelin made an urgent trip to Washington, hoping to negotiate a reduction in tariffs [3][5]. - The Swiss delegation's meetings were largely unproductive, with no agreements reached, and they returned empty-handed [5]. - The Swiss leadership faced criticism domestically for their handling of the negotiations, with media suggesting that misjudgments contributed to the failure [6][8]. External Factors - The high tariffs are partly attributed to President Trump's perception of Switzerland as a target for increased trade benefits, as well as a significant trade deficit of nearly $40 billion that the U.S. has with Switzerland [8]. - Trump's expectations for Switzerland to increase imports of U.S. natural gas or boost investments in the U.S. to mitigate tariffs were not met, as Swiss officials emphasized their already open market [8]. Future Considerations - The failure of the diplomatic visit leaves Switzerland in a precarious position regarding how to address the U.S. tariffs, with options including continued negotiations or seeking alternative markets [8]. - The situation serves as a cautionary tale for other nations about the unpredictable nature of international trade relations [8].
被39%关税逼急了,瑞士一二把手“不请自来”紧急飞往美国,没见到特朗普,最终空手而归?
Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-08-10 07:46