Switzerland's Dairy Industry

Switzerland is renowned worldwide for its outstanding dairy products, contributing significantly to the global dairy market. The country's dairy sector is advanced and well-regulated, blending a rich heritage with ongoing innovation.

Dairy Cattle and Milk Production

Currently, Switzerland houses approximately 550,000 dairy cattle, supporting a sustainable and efficient dairy production system. The country produces around 3.6 million tonnes of milk annually, highlighting the robustness of its dairy industry.

Milk Processing and Cheese Production

The milk processing sector in Switzerland is highly developed, processing about 3.4 million tonnes of milk each year. Cheese production stands out, with approximately 190,000 tonnes produced annually, and Swiss cheese varieties such as Gruyère and Emmental are celebrated globally.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

Beyond dairy products and cheese, Switzerland produces an estimated 60,000 tonnes of milk powder and 45,000 tonnes of whey annually, contributing significantly to its export market.

Key Dairy Enterprises

• Emmi AG: A leader in Swiss milk processing and production.
• Laiteries Réunies Genève: Renowned for exceptional dairy products.
• Gruyère SA: Known globally for superior Gruyère cheese.
• Buchs Käse AG: Specializes in cheese processing and production.

Notable Dairy Farms

• Alp Milking: Respected for traditional milking methods.
• Bio Suisse Dairy Farm: Pioneers in organic dairy farming.
• Schwandenhof: Focuses on producing high-quality milk.
• Theresenhof Dairy Farm: Specializes in cattle breeding and milk production.

Export and Import of Dairy Products

Switzerland is a notable figure in the global dairy trade. It exports about 120,000 tonnes of dairy products each year, while importing around 150,000 tonnes to satisfy diverse domestic demands.

Significant Events in the Dairy Industry

• 2023: Introduction of new regulations to enhance sustainability and reduce carbon footprints in dairy farming.
• 2022: Emmi AG expanded its export operations, securing new agreements in Asian and North American markets.
• 2021: Government initiated subsidies to boost organic dairy farming, propelling sector growth.
• Switzerland became a key source for dairy imports in several regions, including Ukraine. DSM, a Dutch-Swiss company, introduced Bovaer, enhancing sustainability in dairy production.
• Top graduates received international exposure through Nestlé apprenticeships. The Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley event in Bern gathered over 60 stakeholders.
• In 2014, Hochdorf, a Swiss infant formula producer, acquired a 60% stake in the dairy sector, bolstering its market position.
• Production of soluble coffee packets in Switzerland, with shipments to Spain since 2022.

The current base tariff rate in Switzerland is set at 10%, although it is significantly higher for many countries.

Modified: 2025/04/14

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