The latest episode in the tariff muddle suggests a rate of probably 12.5% for Switzerland. That is comparatively reassuring, measured against the nasty surprise of summer 2025. Yet, the debate largely revolves around companies, exports, and competitiveness. In the process, what these announcements mean for the people who work daily in the industry is often overlooked.
Include employees in the debate
For many employees in the mechanical, electrical, medical technology, and supply industries, each new tariff announcement is more than a report in the business press. The impact on everyday working life and their own income becomes more tangible and concrete each time.
They wonder whether orders will dry up, whether investments will be postponed, and whether their jobs are secured in the long term. Especially if the company is already on short-time work - but not only then.
It is this ongoing uncertainty that wears one down, particularly over the long term. When no one knows how the most important export market will develop, personal plans are postponed, worries about the future arise, and trust in the ability to plan one's professional life is lost.
Communicate transparently and maintain trust
Employees Switzerland expects companies to inform their employees in a timely and open manner. Transparent communication builds trust, even when not all answers are available yet.
Protecting the industry also means protecting those who sustain it
Simultaneously, politics and social partners must do everything possible to stabilize economic relations with the USA and strengthen Switzerland as an industrial location.
The Swiss industry thrives on highly qualified specialists. Especially in times of international uncertainty, these people must not become victims of geopolitical conflicts. Reliability is now needed, not just for the companies, but also for the employees who ensure day by day that the Swiss industry can maintain the quality and know-how upon which its worldwide reputation is based.
Contact:
Tanja Tanneberger
Communication Employees Switzerland
tanja.tanneberger@angestellte.ch +41 44 360 11 21
Laure Fasel
Communication Employees Switzerland
laure.fasel@angestellte.ch, +41 44 360 11 28