The planned hikes in customs duties are prompting United States importers of Swiss cheeses to adopt a wait-and-see approach, says Philippe Bardet, director of the trade association Interprofession du Gruyère. The United States is the leading export market for Swiss Gruyère PDO (protected designation of origin). However, the increased tariffs facing all imports into the United States are driving producers to pursue diversification strategies. Two major markets – China and Russia – remain difficult to penetrate. SWI swissinfo.ch visited the Maison du Gruyère show dairy to meet Philippe Bardet, the first director of the interbranch association, Interprofession du Gruyère AOP. He is now stepping down from this position, which he has held since 1997. We talk about the risks and challenges awaiting the sector and the brand. SWI swissinfo.ch: US President Donald Trump has threatened additional tariffs on all imports to the United States. What would this mean for Swiss Gruyère PDO?
