Economy

The Swiss-US trade war shocks European businesses, putting neutral Switzerland at the center of an economic relationship crisis.

03 Aug 2025 2 min

Switzerland, long known for its neutrality and close ties with the United States, was jolted by President Donald Trump’s policies described as a “slap in the face.” These decisions have disrupted trade relations and shaken the confidence of Swiss business leaders and government officials. Within days, decades of trust between Switzerland and Washington were suddenly rattled, placing Switzerland at the heart of an intensifying Swiss-US trade war.

Tensions escalated after the Trump administration imposed new tariffs on a range of European products, including those from Switzerland. Many observers noted that this move not only targeted the major EU economies but also smaller, neutral countries like Switzerland. Historically, Switzerland has been a cooperative trading partner, maintaining harmonious relations with the US. However, this time Switzerland is not spared from the wave of protectionism shaking up the global trade landscape.

Swiss business leaders and government officials quickly mobilized to seek clarification on Washington’s sudden decision. CEOs of major Swiss companies expressed shock and concern, as these policies could disrupt Swiss exports to the American market—a market vital to the Swiss economy. The Swiss Minister of Economy requested an official explanation from the White House and stressed the importance of open trade diplomacy to avoid prolonged conflict. Meanwhile, Switzerland is boosting trade relations with Asian and Middle Eastern countries as a diversification strategy.

The Swiss-US trade war is already having tangible effects across sectors. Switzerland’s pharmaceutical, finance, and high-tech industries are experiencing distribution hurdles and declining demand. The Swiss National Bank has announced stabilization measures to counter currency volatility caused by global economic turbulence. Small businesses worry about domino effects on supply chains and the competitiveness of Swiss products in global markets. Several companies are now reassessing investment and expansion plans while waiting for clarity from US policy.

The Swiss-US trade war is also testing Switzerland’s neutrality on the world stage. Traditionally, Switzerland serves as a mediator and a pillar of economic stability in Europe, even hosting major diplomatic events. Now, under US pressure, Switzerland must take a firmer stance without sacrificing its core values of neutrality. The situation has sparked debates in Swiss parliament and media over whether a new approach is needed to navigate today’s geopolitical and economic challenges.

The world is watching the Swiss-US trade war as a clear example of how global trade conflicts spare no one. Many nations are closely observing Switzerland’s response—can a small neutral country survive pressure from a major power? The European Union and G7 are encouraging open dialogue, hoping for a resolution through negotiations. Meanwhile, global markets await to see whether Trump’s move against Switzerland is simply a broader negotiation tactic or the beginning of a new trend in US trade policy.