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Parliament split on US trade talks

Tuesday, 3 June 2025 at 06:30

Switzerland has until July 9 to avoid new US customs duties.

The Federal Council is pushing a negotiation mandate through parliament but faces internal divisions. 

The National Council’s Foreign Policy Committee backed the plan 17–8, urging swift talks with the US. 

But concerns remain about prioritising the EU. Which - for Switzerland - is much more important as it trades 4 times as much with it than the US.

In contrast, the Council of States committee couldn’t reach consensus in 45 minutes, cancelling a planned press briefing. There’s no decision yet, making negotiation with the  US difficult. 

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