As global trade tensions intensify in 2025, Swiss small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are once again proving their resilience. The reintroduction of U.S. tariffs on European goods—particularly targeting metals, chemicals, and pharmaceutical inputs—has created new challenges for export-oriented Swiss firms. Yet, rather than scaling back, many SMBs are adapting their hiring strategies to meet the moment.
📉 Tariffs and Their Ripple Effect
According to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, exports to the United States fell by 4.2% in Q2 2025 compared to the same period last year. The decline is most pronounced in precision manufacturing and MedTech sectors, where U.S. tariffs have increased costs and disrupted supply chains. For Swiss SMBs—who represent over 99% of all companies and employ nearly two-thirds of the national workforce—these shifts are deeply consequential.
While some export-heavy firms have paused hiring, the broader trend is one of strategic recalibration. SMBs are prioritizing roles that support agility, compliance, and digital transformation—key capabilities for navigating economic uncertainty.
🧠 Strategic Hiring: Building Resilience Through Talent
TalentCloud Group’s internal data reveals a growing demand for professionals with:
- Expertise in supply chain optimization and logistics planning
- Backgrounds in regulatory affairs and trade compliance
- Skills in digital transformation, including ERP systems and automation
- Fluency in multiple languages, especially German, French, and English
🏗️ Investing in Domestic Strength
Interestingly, the pressure from tariffs has prompted many SMBs to invest more heavily in domestic operations. Government incentives for local sourcing and digital infrastructure upgrades have led to increased hiring in construction, IT services, and green tech. The Federal Council’s 2025 SME Resilience Package—which includes tax relief and innovation grants—has further encouraged hiring in roles tied to sustainability and process improvement.
Swiss SMBs are not immune to global trade disruptions, but they are uniquely equipped to respond with agility and foresight. By investing in specialized talent, embracing digital tools, and leveraging Switzerland’s multilingual workforce, these enterprises are turning adversity into opportunity.
As H2 2025 unfolds, the hiring landscape within SMBs will continue to reflect a balance of caution and innovation. For candidates and employers alike, the message is clear: resilience isn’t just a mindset—it’s a hiring strategy.
