The Federal Council had originally planned to cut agricultural spending by 1.6% in the coming years. This was part of a broader austerity operation. However, the enormous saving of 230 million francs was reversed.
Especially the Swiss Farmers’ Union (SBV) and various agricultural organizations have strongly advocated for maintaining the subsidies. They argued that the agricultural sector has been working with a limited budget for years, while many costs and expenses are mandatory. According to SBV director Martin Rufer, it is unfair to make farmers carry the burden of the government’s budget deficits.
Opponents of increasing agricultural spending pointed to the declining number of farms. Over the past twenty years, the number of Swiss farms has decreased by 30%. Critics say the budget should be adjusted to this development.
Maintaining agricultural subsidies has consequences for various groups. For farmers, it means stability and the opportunity to continue investing in sustainable and climate-friendly farming practices. Consumers can therefore count on stable food prices and a certain degree of self-sufficiency.
Switzerland pursues its own agricultural policy which differs from the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) of the European Union. The EU mainly emphasizes a free market for agricultural products, but Switzerland places more stress on local production and strict environmental regulations.
An important difference between Swiss and EU agricultural rules is the impact on trade agreements and environmental requirements. Switzerland applies stricter standards regarding animal welfare and ecological sustainability than many EU countries. Swiss farmers may have to comply with international trade rules, while the EU largely shields its internal market. This can pose a competitive disadvantage for Swiss farmers.
The decision to keep the agricultural budget unchanged suggests that Switzerland values its agricultural sector. With this decision, parliament continues to prioritize food security, sustainability, and the preservation of traditional farming practices.