Switzerland Seeks Trade Deal with Trump Without Getting into EU Bind

Switzerland is making moves to strike a bilateral trade agreement with the United States under the Trump administration. This move has come in the wake of rising tariff tensions and a growing need to protect Swiss exports. Especially after Washington imposed a sudden 31% tariff on Swiss goods. The country is keen to finalize a deal with the U.S. that would ease trade flows and offer mutual economic benefits without damaging its relationship with the European Union.

Switzerland, which is not an EU member but maintains close economic and political ties with the bloc, is attempting a delicate balancing act. It wants to reassure Brussels that any trade deal with Washington will not breach or undermine its ongoing framework agreement discussions with the EU. This is particularly important at a time when Switzerland is also working to rebuild trust with the EU after years of stalling broader bilateral deals.

According to diplomatic sources, Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter and her team are working on a proposal that offers targeted market access to U.S. exports—such as seafood and citrus—along with increased openness in financial services and digital trade. However, Switzerland is being cautious not to include provisions that would contradict EU standards, especially in areas like agricultural protection and regulatory norms. Lawmakers from various parties, including the Greens, have emphasized the importance of maintaining compatibility with EU commitments.

Talks between the two countries have gained momentum in recent weeks. In May, President Keller-Sutter met U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Geneva, where both sides expressed their desire to “accelerate” negotiations. The U.S. side reportedly praised Switzerland for its neutrality and diplomatic professionalism, even suggesting it was ahead of the EU in the queue for a trade pact.

U.S. officials have acknowledged Switzerland’s efficiency and its role as a “flawless host,” referencing recent global summits it organized. This diplomatic goodwill appears to be boosting Swiss hopes of signing at least a letter of intent before the U.S. elections gain full momentum. The 90-day suspension of the U.S. tariffs on Swiss goods is due to expire on July 9, making the coming days crucial.

While Switzerland eyes a fast-track agreement with Washington, it is also trying to strengthen EU ties in parallel. President Keller-Sutter has recently engaged with European finance ministers to ensure Switzerland remains a reliable partner to the EU, while still diversifying its global trade portfolio.

If successful, Switzerland’s approach could serve as a model for how small but influential economies can balance competing interests in an increasingly fragmented world. The Alpine nation hopes to finalize a deal that supports economic growth, protects strategic autonomy, and avoids the pitfalls of major power politics. Keep Reading Quest Euro for more news.

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