USA: This applies in customs chaos

The 24th February 2026 marks the latest chapter in the customs thriller with the USA: after the US Supreme Court ruled the previous tariffs illegal a few days earlier, the US government has now introduced new tariffs.

Help with the reclaim

With immediate effect, the general additional tariffs of ten per cent will apply again. These are in addition to the existing MFN duty rate. Country-specific duties are therefore history again.

Only goods listed in Annex II are exempt. Textiles and clothing are not included.

Companies wishing to reclaim the excess duties paid can do so via the electronic ACH refund procedure of the US customs authorities CBP. Our partner Switzerland Global Enterprise provides an overview of the process here.

The new tariffs in detail

Compared to the deal negotiated in November, Swiss products are worse off on average. While the original upper limit was 15 per cent, the new tariffs tend to be higher, especially for textiles and clothing. This is because the existing MFN tariffs are above five per cent - the latest ten per cent will be added to this.

They will apply for 150 days. The US Congress will then vote on whether to continue them. Regardless of the outcome, however, it is to be expected that the tariffs will remain in place in some form.

Why negotiations must continue

It is therefore crucial to continue the negotiations and reach an agreement. This is what the Federal Council is currently planning. Swiss Textiles welcomes this approach.

An agreement could provide much-needed planning security. Especially in the event that the US government switches back to country-specific tariffs.

Swiss Textiles is continuing to monitor the situation and is on hand to advise its members.