What will happen starting tomorrow to Swiss goods heading to the United States? This is the question being asked in these hours by many exporting companies grappling with the entry into force of a new 31 percent tariff wanted by the U.S. administration. A measure that marks a new chapter in the complex dynamics of international trade relations and could also have significant repercussions for Switzerland, a traditionally export-oriented country.

From its operations center in Chiasso and Novazzano, Franzosini-which has been in the customs logistics business for more than a century-follows developments closely. It is from here that transports to all of Europe, Asia and the United States are handled daily, with a network of services that integrates transportation, customs clearance and consulting.

“Right now,” explains Marco Oliver Tepoorten, president of Franzosini, “we have shipments bound for New York and Houston already on their way. The shipment left when the regulatory framework was still uncertain. Now, barring any last-minute changes, these goods will be subject to the new duty.”

The impact on Swiss companies

Traffic to the U.S. accounts for a smaller share of Franzosini’s turnover, about 1.5 million francs out of an annual total of 35 million. However, the effect of the new tariffs is being felt immediately: client companies, already informed and involved, show concern about the economic impact, as the duties are likely to fall, at least in part, on their margins or on the end customer.

The measure imposed by the United States is part of a trade war logic, which is likely to generate chain reactions. While the Swiss Federal Council has ruled out the introduction of counterduties, the European Union seems to be adopting a more wait-and-see attitude. “The real concern,” Tepoorten adds, “is that this initiative will trigger a spiral, with duties on several fronts. A trade war, in full swing, adding to the other global crises we are already facing.”

A structural fragility not to be underestimated

Beyond the immediate cost impact, the situation highlights a broader problem: Switzerland’s structural preparedness to handle complex customs scenarios. In recent years, abetted by liberalization and digitization, there has been a gradual reduction in the number of customs-trained personnel-both in the public and private sectors.

“We are one of the few countries in the world that applies duties based on weight rather than value,” Tepoorten recalls, “and with the 2024 reform, duties were eliminated on a wide range of industrial products. However, this has reduced the practical experience of dealing with customs regulations even more. If we were to go back to a complex system today, we are not ready.”

The role of customs agents

In this context, realities like Franzosini take on an even more central role. It is no longer just about transporting goods: customs brokerage becomes a strategic component to ensure continuity, reliability and responsiveness. Knowledge of regulations, experience with digital customs tools and adaptability to regulatory changes are crucial skills today.

The situation with the United States is just the tip of the iceberg: duties, sanctions, embargoes and new ESG regulations are reshaping the international logistics landscape. It is precisely in these scenarios that a reliable partner with established customs expertise and a global vision can make all the difference.

---

Want to know how to protect your shipments to the United States?

Our team is available forcustomized riskanalysis and tailored solutions to help you better plan for exports.
Contact us directly from here or request a consultation.