{
  "id": 8049953,
  "title": "Helene Budliger hat die Zollverhandlungen mit den USA geprägt – wie geht es nun weiter?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/17/helene-budliger-hat-die-zollverhandlungen-mit-den-usa-gepragt-wie",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-09-17T15:22:13.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "NZZ Wirtschaft",
    "slug": "nzz-wirtschaft",
    "url": "https://www.nzz.ch/wirtschaft/helene-budliger-hat-die-zollverhandlungen-mit-den-usa-gepraegt-wie-geht-es-nun-weiter-ld.10024207"
  },
  "original_language": "de",
  "account": "Helene Budliger, the Seco-Chef, has become a key figure in the US customs negotiations. Though her success depends on others, her impact on the Swiss economy is praised. At a Swiss Industry Chamber congress, Budliger stated she couldn't speak on the US customs dispute, explaining that Washington reads every detail. She shared what mattered to the Americans and how Switzerland would react, presenting a direct and open approach for a federal official. Budliger's unorthodox style has garnered attention in Switzerland, with many praising her for understanding the need to adapt to the Trump administration's style. However, her departure in late March is lamented, as she brought a powerful inner fire and made significant efforts for favorable conditions for Swiss industry. Other Swiss economic representatives also commend her unconventional approach, noting that she grasped the necessity to sidestep traditional economic diplomacy when dealing with the Trump administration. While the Swiss government issued a statement condemning potential bribery allegations against the US delegation, the Swiss private sector remains committed to the ongoing negotiations, including the 15% reduction in US customs tariffs from 39% to 15%. Despite potential future challenges, Swiss exports still enjoy a favorable comparative advantage over EU competitors.",
  "summary": "Die abtretende Seco-Chefin ist eine Schlüsselfigur in den Zollgesprächen. In der Schweizer Wirtschaft wird ihr grosser Einsatz gelobt. Doch der Erfolg hängt nicht von ihr ab.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}