U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued new guidance implementing tariff-related provisions of the U.S.–Switzerland–Liechtenstein Framework Agreement on Fair, Balanced, and Reciprocal Trade, which was finalized on November 14, 2025.
The guidance follows a Federal Register notice released by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and reflects updates to reciprocal tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). These changes affect certain goods originating in Switzerland and Liechtenstein and are effective for qualifying imports entered on or after November 14, 2025.
What the Agreement Changes
The framework agreement modifies how reciprocal tariffs apply to Swiss and Liechtenstein products by linking additional duties to existing tariff rates under the U.S. tariff schedule.
Key Takeaway for Importers
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Products already subject to higher base tariffs (with a Column 1 duty rate greater than or equal to 15% ad valorem) will generally not face additional reciprocal duties.
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Products with lower base tariffs ( with a Column 1 duty rate less than 15% ad valorem) may now be subject to a combined tariff rate of up to 15%.
These adjustments are intended to ensure balanced treatment while maintaining predictable access to the U.S. market.
Expanded Tariff Exemptions
CBP also confirmed that several categories of products are now exempt from reciprocal tariffs when originating in Switzerland or Liechtenstein.
Newly Exempt Product Categories Include:
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Certain agricultural goods
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Natural resources unavailable or not produced in the United States
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Generic pharmaceuticals, pharmaceutical ingredients, and chemical precursors
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Civil aircraft, aircraft parts, components, engines, and flight simulators
These exemptions apply to qualifying goods imported on or after November 14, 2025, and are expected to benefit sectors such as life sciences, aerospace, and agriculture.
What Remains Unchanged
Aside from the specific changes outlined in the framework agreement, all other reciprocal tariff provisions remain in effect for Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Existing exemptions under prior tariff programs also continue to apply unless explicitly modified by the agreement.
Why This Matters
The updated guidance reflects a broader U.S. trade strategy focused on:
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Strengthening economic ties with trusted trading partners
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Reducing unnecessary tariff burdens on critical industries
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Improving predictability for importers navigating reciprocal tariff regimes
For U.S. businesses sourcing from Switzerland or Liechtenstein, the changes may result in lower effective duties, improved cost certainty, and expanded access to tariff-free treatment for key products.