U.S. Eases Tariffs for Switzerland and Liechtenstein While Trade Deal is Negotiated

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Dec. 17, 2025
By: Marvin E. McPherson

The Commerce Department and U.S. Trade Representative published a pre-publication notice regarding adjustments to reciprocal tariffs under a recent trade deal with Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Switzerland and Liechtenstein are in a customs and monetary union, so that the treatment accorded Switzerland is typically accorded Liechtenstein.

Effective December 18, 2025, and retroactive from November 14, 2025, imports from Switzerland and/or Liechtenstein will be subject to a 15% total most-favored nation plus reciprocal rate if their MFN rate is under 15%. Goods with an MFN rate over 15% will have a zero reciprocal tariff rate.

On November 14, 2025, the United States, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein announced a framework to negotiate an Agreement on Fair, Balanced, and Reciprocal Trade. In connection with this framework, the United States agreed to modify certain tariff rates on products of Switzerland and/or Liechtenstein on an interim basis, consistent with Executive Order 14346.

Certain products of Switzerland and/or Liechtenstein identified in the Potential Tariff Adjustments for Aligned Partners (PTAAP) Annex are exempt from the reciprocal tariff imposed under Executive Order 14257. These exemptions apply to specified categories of goods, including select agricultural products, unavailable natural resources, aircraft and aircraft parts, and certain generic pharmaceuticals and related inputs.

The HTSUS has been amended accordingly for goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on November 14, 2025. To the extent that implementation of these changes requires refunds of duties previously collected, such refunds will be processed in accordance with CBP forthcoming procedures.

These tariff modifications are adopted with the understanding and expectation that there will be a fully negotiated trade deal by the first quarter of 2026. If negotiations are not concluded by March 31, 2026, the United States will review and reconsider the modifications, as appropriate.

If you have questions about the Switzerland/Liechtenstein trade agreement, current tariff rates on products, the refund process, or what Liechtenstein’s story is, do not hesitate to contact an attorney at Barnes Richardson, & Colburn LLP.