Swiss Exports in Crisis: US Tariffs Trigger Emergency Measures for Chocolate and Watch Industries
Bern, Switzerland – August 16, 2025 – A wave of hefty US tariffs is sending shockwaves through Switzerland’s export-driven economy, particularly impacting iconic industries like chocolate and luxury watchmaking. Companies are racing against the clock to mitigate the damage, with calls for government intervention and innovative strategies to preserve access to the crucial American market. This is a developing story, and archyde.com is providing up-to-the-minute coverage.
The “Zollhammer” Strikes: Bern Exporters Face a 39% Blow
The newly imposed 39% tariffs on Swiss goods entering the United States are proving to be a significant hurdle for businesses across the canton of Bern. From the famed Ragusa chocolate of Camille Bloch to the precision timepieces of Armin Strom, exporters are grappling with a sudden and substantial increase in costs, threatening their competitiveness and potentially jeopardizing long-established trade relationships.
Camille Bloch Calls for “Schoggi Act” Revival to Save Kosher Chocolate Market
Daniel Bloch, head of Chocolats Camille Bloch, is urgently appealing to the Swiss federal government to reactivate the “Schoggi Act,” a piece of legislation originally designed to level the playing field for Swiss food manufacturers facing higher production costs. “The unequal treatment compared to the EU is creating a significant competitive disadvantage,” Bloch explained. The company, known for its kosher chocolate exports to the US, fears losing a vital market segment. The original “Schoggi Act,” in effect from 1974 to 2019, compensated for these cost differences. Bloch argues that, given the US’s current deviation from WTO rules, Switzerland is justified in reinstating a similar measure, effectively covering the roughly 20% customs difference between the EU and Switzerland. He believes this support is far more effective than short-time work, allowing companies to maintain a presence in the US rather than simply reducing hours.
Armin Strom’s Bold Move: Establishing a US Subsidiary to Circumvent Tariffs
Luxury watch manufacturer Armin Strom is taking a more direct approach. Serge Michel, the company’s head, announced the establishment of a US subsidiary designed to minimize the impact of the tariffs. By importing components and assembling watches within the United States, Armin Strom aims to reduce the taxable value of its products. “The tariffs shake the watch industry through,” Michel stated, emphasizing the severity of the situation. The company is also considering a global price increase to lessen the burden on US consumers and exploring opportunities in alternative markets.
Navigating the Customs Maze: Bern’s Commercial Association Offers Support
The Commercial and Industry Association of the Canton of Bern (HIV) is stepping in to assist its members in navigating the complex new customs landscape. The association is hosting webinars and providing expert guidance on tariff codes, potential exemptions, and strategies for minimizing costs. Henrik Schoop, director of the HIV, highlighted the intricacies of calculating the total tariff burden, which includes not only the 39% US tariff but also pre-existing US import duties and potential surcharges on materials like steel and aluminum. Understanding the country of origin is also crucial; simply sourcing a component from Germany won’t bypass the Swiss tariffs.
Beyond the Immediate Crisis: A Look at the Long-Term Implications
The current tariff dispute underscores the fragility of global trade and the importance of diversification. While the immediate focus is on mitigating the damage, Swiss companies are also re-evaluating their long-term strategies. This includes exploring new markets, investing in innovation to enhance competitiveness, and advocating for a resolution to the underlying trade tensions. The situation also raises questions about the future of international trade agreements and the potential for further protectionist measures. For businesses, understanding the nuances of international trade law and staying informed about evolving regulations is more critical than ever. The Swiss government’s response – whether it’s reviving the “Schoggi Act” or pursuing other avenues – will be pivotal in determining the fate of these vital export industries.
This is a rapidly evolving situation. archyde.com will continue to provide updates and in-depth analysis as the story unfolds. Stay tuned for further developments and expert commentary on the impact of US tariffs on the Swiss economy.
