Switzerland’s Federal Council published a declaration on 29 June 2026 outlining implementation of further elements of the November 2025 Switzerland-US joint statement aimed at stabilising bilateral trade relations. Switzerland expects reciprocal US commitments in return, while pursuing a comprehensive trade agreement as the long-term goal. The move is tied to managing US tariff pressures on […]
Ministry Archives:Seco
US Additional Tariffs: Switzerland Continuing Negotiations
Switzerland’s Federal Council discussed next steps regarding US USTR Section 301 investigations, including forced labor allegations on Swiss goods imports. The Federal Council rejected the forced labor allegations and will submit written arguments, while trade negotiations with the US continue.
Switzerland restricts war-relevant exports due to Iran conflict neutrality obligations
The Swiss Federal Council has decided that export of war materiel to countries involved in the international armed conflict with Iran cannot be authorized for the conflict’s duration. Existing licences and exports of other goods will be regularly reviewed by an interdepartmental expert group for neutrality compatibility. This constitutes a direct export control measure affecting […]
G10 Senior Officials Meet at WTO MC14 to Discuss Agriculture Negotiations
G10 members met on the sidelines of WTO MC14 in Yaoundé on 27 March 2026, hosted by Switzerland, to discuss agricultural negotiations. Members reaffirmed willingness to engage constructively in agriculture talks while protecting their interests as net food importers. The meeting addressed compatibility with domestic agricultural policies.
No breakthrough at WTO MC14 in Cameroon
The 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14) concluded in Yaoundé, Cameroon without major policy decisions on WTO reform. Some members agreed to implement the negotiated e-commerce agreement. Switzerland’s delegation was led by State Secretary Helene Budliger Artieda of SECO.
Switzerland Federal Council Responds to US Section 301 Investigations
The Swiss Federal Council discussed US Section 301 investigations targeting Switzerland over alleged excess manufacturing capacity and insufficient forced labor import restrictions. Switzerland rejects the allegations and intends to submit its views in the relevant proceedings. The outcome could affect trade measures between the US and Switzerland.
Switzerland Expands Sanctions Lists Against Russia and Belarus (EU 20th Package Alignment)
Switzerland’s Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research expanded its sanctions lists targeting Russia and Belarus on 22 May 2026, aligning with the EU’s 20th sanctions package. The measures took effect at 11pm the same day.
Switzerland extends export control exemptions to all EU and EFTA states
The Swiss Federal Council decided on 27 May 2026 to extend country-specific exemptions under Swiss export control legislation on military equipment trade to all EU and EFTA states. Three federal ordinances will be amended, with changes taking effect 1 July 2026. States newly added to the lists will receive the same concessions previously applicable to […]