Swiss watch exports have faced mounting challenges this year, notably due to escalating trade tensions with the United States. In October, the industry continued to experience a downturn linked to the 39% tariffs implemented by Washington, impacting a sector vital to the Swiss economy. Recent discussions offer a potential path forward, though, as Bern and Washington explore an agreement to substantially reduce those duties. the future of Swiss watch exports may hinge on the outcome of these ongoing negotiations.
By
AFP
Published
November 20, 2025
Swiss watch exports continued to suffer in October due to the 39% tariffs imposed by the United States, but a potential agreement between Bern and Washington to reduce those duties to 15% offers a glimmer of hope for the industry. The Swiss watchmaking sector, a key component of the country’s luxury goods market, has been significantly impacted by the trade dispute.
Become a Premium Member
This content is reserved for Premium subscribers.
Please log in or subscribe to access it.
*€1 including VAT for the first month, then €19.90/month for 1 email, €39.90/month for 2 to 5 emails, €69.90/month for 6 to 20 emails.
All rights of reproduction and representation are reserved.
© 2025 Agence France-Presse
All information reproduced in this section (or on this page as the case may be) is protected by intellectual property rights held by AFP. Consequently, none of this information may be reproduced, modified, redistributed, translated, commercially exploited or reused in any way without the prior written consent of AFP. AFP shall not be liable for delays, errors, omissions that cannot be excluded, or the consequences of actions or transactions carried out on the basis of this information.
