Swiss officials call U.S. forced labor claims 'fallacious pretext' for tariffs

Switzerland has been subjected to new U.S. customs duties of 12.5%, imposed due to allegations that Bern is not adequately combating the importation of products made with forced labor. This move places Switzerland under a higher tariff rate than the European Union and other countries that have already enacted similar legislation, who face a reduced 10% rate.

Swiss authorities have strongly refuted these allegations, pointing to Switzerland's ratification of multiple international treaties aimed at eradicating forced labor. Center National Council member Vincent Maitre criticized the U.S. justification, stating, "The justification based on the prevention of forced labor makes no sense. We do not have to legislate under American pressure!"

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The justification based on the prevention of forced labor makes no sense. We do not have to legislate under American pressure!

Parliamentarians are expected to address this issue further during upcoming debates concerning a second initiative on responsible multinational corporations. Maitre argued that Switzerland's labor legislation is strong, especially when compared to that of the United States. He suggested that the invocation of forced labor is merely a "fallacious pretext" by the U.S. administration to artificially increase customs duties.

Maitre cautioned against being naive or overreacting, implying that political motivations, possibly linked to the Trump administration, are at play. He expressed confidence that "Trump is not eternal," suggesting a hope for a change in U.S. policy.

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The invocation of forced labor is merely a "fallacious pretext" by the U.S. administration to artificially increase customs duties. It is important not to be fooled or overreact. Trump is not eternal.