US Imposes New Tariffs on Swiss Imports Over Forced Labor Claims, Switzerland Disputes Allegations

The United States has imposed new tariffs of up to 12.5% on Swiss imports, effective July 24, citing allegedly insufficient measures against forced labor. Switzerland's government disputes these allegations, stating that forced labor is already prohibited under its constitutional, civil, and criminal law, and that there is no evidence of Swiss supply chains being used to smuggle goods produced through forced labor into the US market. Swiss business association Economiesuisse called the decision neither understandable nor justified, noting that it puts Swiss companies at a disadvantage compared to competitors from regions with lower tariff rates.