Switzerland (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Switzerland and China have agreed to speed up negotiations to upgrade their free-trade agreement amid rising pressure from high US tariffs on Chinese goods. Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and Chinese counterpart Wang Yi emphasized closer collaboration to mitigate tariff impacts as Switzerland continues trade discussions with the US administration.
Swiss and Chinese Leaders Commit to Accelerated Trade Negotiations
As reported by Giovanni Staunovo of Bloomberg, Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi jointly announced on October 11, 2025, that both nations will fast-track negotiations aimed at upgrading their existing free-trade agreement. This move comes amid escalating US tariffs on Chinese imports, which have adversely affected global supply chains and trade dynamics.
Cassis highlighted Switzerland’s interest in deepening economic ties with China to counterbalance the disruptions caused by US trade policy shifts. Wang Yi echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of stable bilateral trade relations and economic cooperation.
US Tariffs as a Catalyst for Closer Switzerland-China Ties
According to Bloomberg’s report by Giovanni Staunovo and contributors, the implementation of US tariffs has led to increased cost pressures on Swiss businesses reliant on Chinese products. This has incentivised Switzerland to seek stronger trade collaboration with China as a strategic response while maintaining ongoing negotiations with Washington to reduce tariff rates, which currently remain at record highs.
Reuters analysis on the ongoing US-China trade conflict detailed that President Donald Trump’s administration has imposed steep tariffs on billions of dollars of Chinese imports—raising rates from previous levels of up to 145% down to a still burdensome 30%. The tariffs aim at addressing trade imbalances and curbing China’s technological and manufacturing rise, although they have had ripple effects within European markets including Switzerland.
Economic Challenges and Market Reactions
As noted by Bloomberg market analyst Steve Sosnick, the trade tensions have triggered volatility across global markets, with stocks and commodities reacting sharply to tariff announcements. Swiss companies have felt the pinch both in import costs and in European supply chain disruptions, necessitating diversification of trade partners and accelerated negotiations with China.
Swissinfo.ch further explains that Swiss officials are optimistic these upgraded trade talks will open new opportunities for exports and investments, crucial for an export-driven economy facing uncertainties due to the US-China tariff landscape.
Focus on Upgrading the Free-Trade Agreement
The current Swiss-Chinese free-trade agreement, active since 2014, remains a cornerstone for bilateral trade, but both sides acknowledge the need to modernise terms to reflect contemporary economic realities, including digital trade and sustainability aspects.
Swiss Foreign Minister Cassis has made clear that the acceleration of negotiations aims to address non-tariff barriers and foster smoother regulatory cooperation, consistent with global trade trends. Wang Yi has assured that China is committed to facilitating Swiss access to its growing market under fair and predictable conditions.
Wider Geopolitical and Trade Context
This recalibration of trade partnerships occurs alongside intricate US-China relations, where Washington continues to wield tariffs as leverage while engaging in on-again, off-again negotiations as detailed by Reuters coverage of the 2025 trade developments. Switzerland’s pragmatic approach highlights the challenges smaller economies face amid great-power trade disputes.
Outlook for Switzerland-China and US Relations
Swiss officials remain engaged in parallel discussions with the US administration, striving to advocate for lowered tariff rates and increased market access. The dual-track strategy of enhancing Chinese ties while moderating US trade tensions reflects Switzerland’s neutral yet economically strategic stance.
The decision by Switzerland and China to accelerate free-trade agreement negotiations represents a critical step for Swiss industry and trade amid mounting US tariff pressures. By strengthening bilateral ties with China and continuing dialogue with the US, Switzerland is navigating a complex global trade environment to safeguard its economic interests.
