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Economics Minister Guy Parmelin is actively seeking to prevent new US tariffs amid accusations of unfair trade practices due to Switzerland's trade surplus. While discussions are planned, Parmelin acknowledges that no exceptions are likely before President Trump's announcement on April 2. He emphasizes Switzerland's significant investments in the US and warns of potential EU countermeasures that could complicate ongoing bilateral negotiations.
Switzerland's Federal Council faces criticism for its handling of negotiations with the EU, described as a 6:0 defeat. The proposed framework agreement is seen as a submission to Brussels, with significant financial and sovereignty concessions, raising concerns about the nation's future independence and self-determination.
The Swiss Senate has approved a free trade agreement between the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and India, marking a significant step after 16 years of negotiations. The decision, made with a vote of 41 to 0 and three abstentions, will now proceed to the National Council. The agreement is expected to provide customs relief for 94.7% of Swiss exports to India, addressing the country's high import duties.
In Switzerland, tensions between landlords and tenants have escalated, highlighted by a recent vote that rejected proposals favoring landlords. The Tenants’ Association (Asloca) is pushing for more affordable housing, while the Homeowners’ Association (HEV) argues against restrictive regulations. With nearly 60% of households renting, the ongoing conflict hampers necessary reforms in tenancy laws, leaving both sides dissatisfied.
The Federal Council faced a mixed outcome today, with Elisabeth Baume-Schneider celebrating a narrow victory in health care financing reform, aimed at reducing insurance premium burdens. In contrast, Albert Rösti's highway expansion proposal was rejected, attributed to public skepticism and financial concerns. Guy Parmelin emphasized the need for modernizing rental laws through dialogue, following the public's disapproval of proposed amendments.
On November 24, Swiss voters approved the Efas healthcare reform while rejecting six motorway projects and two revisions of tenancy law. Health Minister Elisabeth Baume-Schneider hailed the healthcare reform as a significant advancement, while Transport Minister Albert Rösti acknowledged his first defeat, emphasizing the need for alternative traffic solutions. Economic Affairs Minister Guy Parmelin noted the public's desire to maintain tenant protections amid calls for updated tenancy laws.
The Swiss Federal Council has opted for a VAT increase to finance the 13th AHV pension, rejecting a mixed funding proposal that included higher employee contributions. This decision, influenced by a right-wing majority, faces challenges in Parliament and may lead to further discussions on pension reforms by 2026. A center-left alliance is pushing for a re-evaluation of the mixed financing solution, which could impact future pension funding strategies.
The 13th AHV pension will require an additional CHF 4.2 billion annually starting in 2026. Social Affairs Minister Elisabeth Baume-Schneider proposed a mixed funding solution involving increased wage contributions and VAT, but faced opposition from conservative parties, leading to a pure VAT increase being adopted. The final decision remains uncertain as a center-left alliance may revive the mixed variant in the Council of States.
The Federal Council is implementing an austerity package to address a budget shortfall, with over four billion francs at stake. Key measures include increased taxes on capital withdrawals from retirement pillars and the controversial decision to maintain bridging benefits for older unemployed individuals, despite internal disagreements. The debate is expected to intensify as the proposals move to parliament, where resistance to cuts may grow.
Guy Parmelin
People
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