The Swiss government said Thursday it would pursue more talks with the United States after a last-gasp mission to Washington failed to stop a 39-percent tariff blow that businesses described as a "horror scenario".

Goods shipped from the country face a 39 percent tariff in the U.S., which companies warn will have dire consequences if President Trump cannot be quickly dissuaded.

Switzerland plans to continue negotiating with the US to lower tariffs from the 39% that kicked in on Thursday and will refrain from implementing countermeasures.