Agriculture Act (AgricA)
English is not an official language of the Swiss Confederation. This translation is provided for information purposes only and has no legal force.
Art. 7 Principle
1 The Confederation shall draw up general conditions for the production and sale of agricultural products so as to ensure that the agricultural sector can operate sustainably and cost-efficiently while at the same time achieving maximum market prices from the sale of its products. 2 At the same time it shall take into account the necessity for product safety, consumer protection and reliable food supplies for the country.
Para. 2 — Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234).
Chapter 1 General Economic Provisions
Section 1 Quality, Sales Promotion and Market Reli
Art. 8 Self-help
1 Producers’ organisations or the corresponding branches are responsible for promoting quality and sales, as well as for ensuring that production and supply are adapted to the demands of the market. 1bis The branch organisations may draw up standard contracts. 2 A branch organisation is an association of producers of individual products or product groups with processors and, in some cases, with traders.
Para. 1bis — Inserted by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Art. 8a Guideline prices
1 The organisations of producers of individual products or product groups or the corresponding branches may publish guideline prices at a national or regional level to which suppliers and buyers have agreed. 2 Guideline prices must be set according to different levels of quality. 3 No individual business may be forced to comply with guideline prices. 4 No guideline prices may be set for retail sales.
Art. 8a — Inserted by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234).
Art. 9 Support for self-help measures
1 Insofar as self-help measures mentioned in Article 8 paragraph 1 come under threat from businesses that do not comply with the collectively agreed measures, the Federal Council may introduce regulations if the organisation: a. is representative; b. is not active in production, processing or sales; c. has approved the self-help measures by a clear majority. 2 The Federal Council may oblige non-members of an organisation to contribute towards funding self-help measures mentioned in Article 8 paragraph 1 if the conditions outlined in paragraph 1 are met and the organisation receives contributions from its members for funding self-help measures. Such contributions may not be used to cover the organisation’s administrative expenses. 3 With regard to adapting production and supply to market demand, the Federal Council may issue regulations solely in case of exceptional developments that are not caused by structural problems. 4 Products sold directly to the public may not be made subject to
Art. 9 — Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234). Para. 1 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075). Para. 2 — Second sentence inserted by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337). Para. 3 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Art. 10 Quality regulations
The Federal Council may issue regulations on quality as well as on the methods used to obtain agricultural products and their processing if such regulations are required for their export or for compliance with Switzerland’s international obligations or with international standards that are important for Swiss agriculture.
Art. 10 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Art. 11 Improving quality and sustainability
1 The Confederation shall support joint measures adopted by producers, processors or traders that are aimed at improving or ensuring the quality and sustainability of agricultural products and goods processed from them, as well as of processing methods. 2 Such measures must: a. promote innovation or cooperation throughout the product chain; b. foresee the participation of producers and be first and foremost of benefit to them. 3 Support may be provided in particular for: a. preliminary studies; b. the initial implementation of the measures; c. the inclusion of producers in projects aimed at improving quality and sustainability. 4 The Federal Council shall draw up requirements for such support.
Art. 11 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Art. 12 Sales promotion
1 The Confederation may subsidise national or regional measures introduced by producers, processors or traders that are aimed at promoting the sale of Swiss agricultural products within the country and abroad. 2 For this purpose it may also support efforts to increase awareness of public services provided by the agricultural sector. 3 It may also coordinate subsidised measures within Switzerland and abroad, for example by devising a common identity. 4 The Federal Council shall draw up the criteria for the allocation of subsidies.
Para. 1 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075). Para. 2 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075). Para. 3 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Art. 13 Market relief
1 In order to avoid slumps in the price of agricultural products, the Confederation may contribute to the cost of temporary measures, in exceptional circumstances, in order to relieve the market. It may not subsidise the reduction of surpluses due to structural factors. 2 Federal subsidies are normally conditional on appropriate contributions from the cantons or from interested organisations.
Section 2 Labelling
Art. 14 General provisions
1 In the interests of credibility and to promote quality and sales, the Federal Council may issue regulations concerning the labelling of agricultural products and processed products which: a. are manufactured using certain methods; b. have other specific characteristics; c. come from mountain areas; d. can be distinguished by their origin; e. are manufactured without the use of certain procedures or do not display specific characteristics; f. are manufactured according to special criteria for sustainable development. 2 Labelling such products according to these regulations is voluntary. 3 The provisions of legislation on gene technology and foodstuffs are reserved. 4 The Federal Council may devise official symbols for labelling under the terms of this Article and Article 63 paragraph 1 letters a and b and may make their use mandatory. 5 It is mandatory to use these symbols in sales promotion campaigns involving measures mentioned in Article 12.
Para. 1 let. e — Inserted by Annex No 8 of the Gene Technology Act of 21 March 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4803; BBl 2000 2391). Para. 1 let. f — Inserted by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075). Para. 3 — Amended by No 8 of the Gene Technology Act of 21 March 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4803; BBl 2000 2391). Para. 4 — Inserted by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337). Amended by No I of
Art. 15 Production methods and specific product characteristics
1 The Federal Council shall stipulate: a. the requirements that must be met by the products and production methods, in particular those that claim to be ecological; b. monitoring procedures. 2 Products may only be labelled as organic if the entire farm where they are produced is run organically. The Federal Council may in particular allow exceptions for farms with permanent crops insofar as the integrity of the organic production and its ability to be checked is not compromised. 3 The Federal Council may recognise the guidelines issued by organisations if they include the requirements mentioned under paragraph 1 letter a. 4 The Federal Council may recognise labelling for foreign products if it is based on equivalent requirements.
Para. 2 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Art. 16 Designations of origin and geographical indications
1 The Federal Council shall set up a register of designations of origin and geographical indications. 2 In particular it shall regulate: a. entitlement to registration; b. the requirements for registration, in particular requirements regarding product specifications; c. appeal and registration procedures; d. monitoring. 2bis Swiss and foreign designations of origin and geographical indications may be entered in the register. 3 Registered designations of origin or geographical indications may not be used as generic names. Generic names may not be registered as designations of origin or as geographical indications. 4 … 5 Registered designations of origin or geographical indications may not be registered as product trade marks if the terms of paragraph 7 apply. 5bis If a trade mark is filed that contains a designation of origin or geographical indication that is identical or similar to a designation of origin or geographical indication that has been filed for registration for identical or
Art. 16 — Term in accordance with Annex No 7 of the FA of 21 June 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2017 (AS 2015 3631; BBl 2009 8533). This amendment has been made throughout the text. Para. 2bis — Inserted by Annex No 7 of the FA of 21 June 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2017 (AS 2015 3631; BBl 2009 8533). Para. 4 — Repealed by No I of the FA of 16 June 2023, with effect from 1 Jan. 2025 (AS 2024 623; BBl 2020 3955). Para. 5 — Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 20
Art. 16a Indications of particular characteristics or production methods
1 Agricultural products or products processed from them may be labelled with information about their particular characteristics or the production methods used that come under the regulations (environmentally friendly production, proof of organic production or animal-friendly livestock management) or with information concerning the regulations. 2 In particular, any such information must comply with the regulations on protection against deception under the terms of legislation on foodstuffs.
Art. 16a — Inserted by No I of the FA of 24 March 2006, in force since 1 Oct. 2006 (AS 2006 3861; BBl 2004 7069, 7083).
Art. 16b Protection of designations of origin and geographical indications outside Switzerland
1 The Confederation shall support the branch, producers’ and processors’ organisations in protecting labels of Swiss origin and geographical indications outside Switzerland. 2 It may take on part of the expenses accruing to Swiss missions abroad if the latter are asked by branch, producers’ or processors’ organisations to protect designations of origin or a geographical indications.
Art. 16b — Inserted by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Section 3 Imports
Art. 17 Import duties
When import duties are set, domestic supply and potential sales of similar domestic products must be taken into account.
Art. 18 Measures regarding products obtained using production methods banned in Switzerland
1 Unless such action breaches international commitments, the Federal Council shall introduce regulations concerning the declaration of products that have been obtained using methods that are banned in Switzerland; it shall raise import duties or ban the import of such products. 2 Under the terms of paragraph 1, banned production methods include those methods which endanger: a. the life or health of human beings, animals or plants; or b. the environment.
Para. 1 — Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234).
Art. 19 Customs tariffs
1 Unless this Act provides otherwise, responsibility and procedures for setting customs tariffs are governed by customs legislation. 2 The customs tariffs for sugar together with the guarantee fund contributions (Art. 16 National Economic Supply Act of 17 June 2016) amount to a minimum of 7 francs per 100 kg gross. This provisions applies until 2026.
Para. 2 — SR 531 Para. 2 — Inserted by No I of the FA of 1 Oct 2021, in force since 1 March 2022 (AS 2022 85; BBl 2021 457, 748).
Art. 19a Specific use of income from customs duties
1 The income from customs duties on agricultural products and foodstuffs for the period 2009–2016 is earmarked for a specific purpose, namely to fund accompanying measures in relation to the implementation of a free-trade agreement with the European Union regarding agricultural products and foodstuffs or of a WTO agreement. 2 In particular, the funding must be used for accompanying measures to support agriculture. 3 If negotiations are unsuccessful, the Federal Council shall release the funds for other uses. 4 If the proposed accompanying measures require less funding than that earmarked for this specific purpose, the Federal Council may release the remaining amount for other uses.
Art. 19a — Inserted by No I of the FA of 18 June 2010, in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 5851; BBl 2009 1335).
Art. 20 Threshold prices
1 The Federal Council may introduce threshold prices for individual products. The terms of Article 17 apply. 2 The threshold price corresponds to the target import price, comprising the price franco Swiss border and customs duties as well as charges with a similar effect. The Federal Council shall decide how the price franco Swiss border, untaxed, is calculated. 3 The Federal Council may set the threshold price for a group of products. The Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) shall set a guideline import value for individual products. 4 The EAER shall decide to what extent the sum of the customs duty rate and price franco Swiss border, untaxed, may deviate from the threshold price before the customs duty rate has to be adjusted (band). 5 The FOAG shall set the customs duty rate for products with a threshold price in such a way that the import price lies within the band. 6 Insofar as the sale of similar domestic products does not come under threat, the E
Para. 2 — Amended by No III of the FA of 24 March 2000 on the Repeal of the Grain Act, in force since 1 July 2001 (AS 2001 1539; BBl 1999 9261). Para. 2 — Second sentence amended by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337). Para. 3 — Term in accordance with No I 28 of the O of 15 June 2012 (Reorganisation of Federal Departments), in force since 1 Jan. 2013 (AS 2012 3655). This amendment has been made throughout the text. Para. 4 — Amended by No I o
Art. 21 Tariff quotas
1 Tariff quotas for agricultural products are set out in Annex 2 to the Customs Tariff Act of 9 October 1986 (General Tariff). 2 The Federal Council may modify tariff quotas and, if applicable, their staggered introduction as part of the General Tariff. 3 The terms of Article 17 apply to the setting and adjustment of tariff quotas as well as to their staggered introduction. 4 If market conditions require the frequent adjustment of tariff quotas, the Federal Council may delegate responsibility for adjusting tariff quotas and for staggering their introduction to the EAER or to an agency that is part of the Federal Department. 5 The provisions of this Act apply mutatis mutandis to additional tariff quotas as defined under the terms of Article 4 paragraph 3 letter c of the Customs Tariff Act of 9 October 1986.
Para. 1 — SR 632.10
Art. 22 Allocation of tariff quotas
1 Competition must be maintained in the allocation of tariff quotas. 2 The authorities responsible shall allocate tariff quotas according to the following procedures and criteria in particular: a. by auction; b. according to domestic purchasing obligations; c. on the basis of the quantity requested; d. according to the order of receipt of applications for permits; e. according to the order of assessments; f. on the basis of the applicant’s imports to date. 3 Promotion of Swiss production as indicated in paragraph 2 letter b is defined as the purchase of similar goods produced in Switzerland and of standard trade quality. 4 In order to avoid abuse, the Federal Council may exclude certain importers from entitlement. 5 The Federal Council may delegate responsibility for setting the criteria for the allocation of tariff quotas to the EAER. 6 The allocation of tariff quotas shall be made public.
Para. 2 let. e — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Art. 23 Compensatory payments and charges
1 If the allocation of a tariff quota share is dependent on promotion of Swiss production (Art. 22 paragraph 2 letter b), the Federal Council may decide on appropriate compensatory payments or charges if: a. such promotion is not necessary in view of its purpose; or b. it is impossible for the importer to promote Swiss production or doing so would lead to unreasonable hardship. 2 Compensatory payments or charges must be set in such a way that they balance out the advantages gained by the importer from not having to promote Swiss production.
Art. 24 Import permits, protective measures
1 In order to gather statistics on imports, the Federal Council may decide that certain agricultural products require an import permit. 2 In view of the protective measures that the Federal Council may introduce, the EAER is authorised to suspend the issuing of import permits until the Federal Council has taken a decision. 3 The application of protection clauses in international agreements on the agricultural sector are governed by Article 11 of the Customs Tariff Act of 9 October 1986. 4 Paragraph 2 does not apply to the application of protection clauses in international agreements under: a. Article 1 of the Federal Act of 25 June 1982 on International Trade Measures; and b. Article 7 of the Customs Tariff Act of 9 October 1986.
Para. 3 — SR 632.10 Para. 4 let. a — SR 946.201
Art. 25 Voluntary contributions
1 Where the branches in question pay taxes on imported agricultural products in favour of domestic products on a voluntary basis, the Federal Council may prescribe the maximum rate for such taxes in order to comply with international commitments. It may delegate this task to the EAER. 2 If the maximum rate for such taxes is reduced because of international agreements, the taxes are modified at the same rate as customs duties. Deviation from this rule is allowed in justified cases.
Section 4 …
Art. 26
Repealed by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, with effect from 1 Jan. 2010 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Section 5 Market Observation
Amended by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Art. 27
1 The Federal Council shall observe market prices that are affected by federal agricultural measures at various levels, from production to consumption. It shall regulate the involvement of market players. 2 The Federal Council shall designate the agency to carry out the necessary data collection and inform the general public.
Para. 1 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Section 6 Gene Technology
Inserted by Annex to No 8 of the Gene Technology Act of 21 March 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4803; BBl 2000 2391).
Art. 27a
1 Genetically modified agricultural products or aids to production may only be produced, reared, imported, released or put into circulation if the requirements of this Act and in particular those of legislation on gene technology, environmental protection, animal protection and foodstuffs are met. 2 Regardless of any further provision, in particular in legislation on gene technology, environmental protection and animal protection, the Federal Council may provide for mandatory permits or other measures for the production and sale of such goods or aids to production.
Para. 1 — Term in accordance with No II 3 of the FA of 19 March 2010, in force since 1 Aug. 2010 (AS 2010 3233; BBl 2009 5435). This amendment has been made throughout the text.
Section 7 Patented Aids to Production and Agricult
Inserted by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Art. 27b
1 If a patent holder has put aids to production or agricultural capital goods into circulation within Switzerland or abroad or has agreed to their being put into circulation, such aids or goods may be imported, sold on and used commercially. 2 Agricultural capital goods are investment goods such as tractors, machinery, tools and installations and their component parts that are intended predominantly for use in agriculture.
Chapter 2 The Dairy Farming Sector
Section 1 Scope of Application
Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234).
Art. 28 …
1 This Chapter applies to cow’s milk. 2 The Federal Council may extend certain provisions, in particular Articles 38, 39 and 41, to cover goat’s, sheep’s and buffalo’s milk.
Art. 28 — Repealed by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, with effect from 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234). Para. 2 — Amended by No I of the FA of 16 June 2023, in force since 1 Jan. 2025 (AS 2024 623; BBl 2020 3955).
Art. 29
Repealed by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, with effect from 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234).
Section 2 …
Art. 30–36
Repealed by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, with effect from 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Art. 36a and 36b
Inserted by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234). Repealed by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, with effect from 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Section 3 Standard Contract for the Milk Sector
Amended by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Art. 37
1 Branch organisations in the milk sector are responsible for drawing up a standard contract for the purchase and sale of untreated milk. The provisions of the standard contract may not have a marked detrimental effect on competition. The contracting partners are responsible for setting prices and quantities. 2 A standard contract within the meaning of this Article is a contract that has a minimum period of validity and possible extension of one year and includes terms concerning quantities, prices and methods of payment. 3 At the request of a branch organisation, the Federal Council may declare the standard contract to be generally binding in relation to all stages of the purchase and sale of untreated milk. 4 The requirements that must be met by the branch organisations and the decision making are governed by Article 9 paragraph 1. 5 Any litigation arising from the standard contract or individual contracts is subject to the jurisdiction of the civil courts. 6 If a branch organisation
Section 4 Market Support
Art. 38 Additional payment for milk used in cheese-making
1 An additional payment shall be made to producers for commercial milk that is used in cheese-making. 1bis The Federal Council may specify that the additional payment shall be made via the milk processors. If this is the case, the Confederation shall make the payment in full discharge of its obligations. 2 The additional payment amounts to 15 cents, under deduction of the amount of the additional payment for commercial milk in accordance with Article 40. The Federal Council shall specify the requirements for the additional payment. It may exclude low-fat cheeses from the additional payment. 3 It may adjust this amount depending on trends in quantities.
Para. 1 — Amended by No I of the FA of 16 June 2023, in force since 1 Jan. 2025 (AS 2024 623; BBl 2020 3955). Para. 1bis — Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 June 2023, in force since 1 Jan. 2025 (AS 2024 623; BBl 2020 3955). Para. 2 — Amended by Annex 2 of the FD of 15 Dec. 2017 (Export competition and export subsidies), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2018 3939; BBl 2017 4351). Para. 3 — Inserted by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337). Amended by Annex 2 of the FD of 15 D
Art. 39 Additional payment for non-use of silage
1 Producers of milk that is used in cheese-making and obtained without the use of silage receive an additional payment. 1bis The Federal Council may specify that the additional payment shall be made via the milk processors. If this is the case, the Confederation shall make the payment in full discharge of its obligations. 2 The Federal Council shall specify the conditions for making additional payments and stipulate the degree of firmness of the cheese and the types of cheese that entitle the producer to an additional payment. It may exclude low-fat cheeses from the additional payment. 3 This additional payment is fixed at 3 cents. The Federal Council may adjust this amount depending on trends in quantities.
Para. 1bis — Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 June 2023, in force since 1 Jan. 2025 (AS 2024 623; BBl 2020 3955). Para. 2 — Amended by No I of the FA of 16 June 2023, in force since 1 Jan. 2025 (AS 2024 623; BBl 2020 3955). Para. 3 — Inserted by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337). Amended by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Art. 40 Additional payment for commercial milk
1 The Confederation may make an additional payment to producers for commercial milk. 2 The Federal Council shall specify the level of and the requirements for the additional payment. 3 The branch organisations may take joint self-help measures relating to the use of the additional payment in terms of paragraph 1.
Art. 40 — Amended by Annex 2 of the FD of 15 Dec. 2017 (Export competition and export subsidies), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2018 3939; BBl 2017 4351).
Section 4a Subsidising Milk Testing
Inserted by No I of the FA of 16 June 2023, in force since 1 Jan. 2025 (AS 2024 623; BBl 2020 3955).
Art. 41
1 To ensure the hygiene of milk, subsidies may be provided to cover part of the laboratory costs of the testing laboratories commissioned by the national dairy farming organisations. 2 The subsidies shall be provided to the national dairy farming organisations in the form of lump-sum funding. 3 The Federal Council shall stipulate the requirements and procedure for providing the subsidies.
Art. 41 — Amended by No I of the FA of 16 June 2023, in force since 1 Jan. 2025 (AS 2024 623; BBl 2020 3955).
Art. 42
Repealed by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, with effect from 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Section 5 Special Measures
Art. 43 Mandatory registration
1 The milk processor shall inform the agency designated by the Federal Council: a. of the quantity of milk supplied by producers; and b. how he or she has processed the milk. 2 Producers who sell milk and dairy products direct must inform the agency of the quantities produced and sold direct. 3 …
Para. 3 — Inserted by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234). Repealed by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, with effect from 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Art. 44
Repealed by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, with effect from 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Art. 45 Payment for collaboration
The Federal Council shall compensate the dairy farming organisations that it entrusts with duties under public law.
Chapter 3 Animal Husbandry
Section 1 Structural Guidance
Art. 46 Maximum stock levels
1 The Federal Council may stipulate maximum stock levels for each farm for various livestock species. 2 If various livestock species are kept on a farm, the sum of the individual percentage shares of the relevant maximum stock levels may not exceed 100 per cent. 3 The Federal Council may allow exceptions for: a. the federal agricultural research institute; b. farms that feed pigs with by-products and food waste issued from farms in the milk and food sectors, thereby fulfilling disposal management tasks in the public interest that are of regional significance; c. experimental farms.
Para. 3 let. c — Amended by No I of the FA of 16 June 2023, in force since 1 Jan. 2025 (AS 2024 623; BBl 2020 3955).
Art. 47 Tax
1 Farms that exceed the maximum stock level under Article 46 must pay an annual tax. 2 The Federal Council shall set the rate of tax so that keeping an excessive number of animals is uneconomical. 3 Where two or more managers keep animals on the same farm, each of the managers shall pay a tax which is proportional to their share of livestock. 4 The division of farms to circumvent the provisions on maximum stock levels shall not be recognised.
Section 2 Slaughter Animals, Meat, Sheep’s Wool an
Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234).
Art. 48 Allocation of tariff quotas
1 The tariff quotas for slaughter animals and meat shall be auctioned. 2 The tariff quota shares for meat from cattle (not including filleted hindquarter cuts) and for sheep shall be allocated at a rate of 10 per cent based on the number of animals purchased by auction from supervised public slaughter animal markets. Exempted therefrom is kosher and halal meat. 2bis The tariff quota shares for meat from cattle, sheep, goats and horses shall be allocated at a rate of 40 per cent based on the number of slaughtered animals. Exempted therefrom is kosher and halal meat. 3 The Federal Council may dispense with allocation arrangements for certain products under tariff headings 0206, 0210 and 1602.
Art. 48 — Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004. Paras 1 and 2 come into force on 1 Oct. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234). Para. 2bis — Inserted by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2015 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Art. 49 Classification by quality
1 The Federal Council shall issue directives and criteria for classifying the quality of slaughtered cattle, horses, pigs, sheep and goats. 2 It may: a. declare the use of these classification criteria to be mandatory; b. require quality classification to be carried out by a neutral agency in certain cases; c. regulate the procedure for ascertaining the carcass weight. 3 The Federal Council may delegate the task of determining the classification criteria to the FOAG.
Para. 2 let. c — Inserted by Annex No II 6 of the Foodstuffs Act of 20 June 2014, in force since 1 May 2017 (AS 2017 249; BBl 2011 5571).
Art. 50 Subsidising measures to relieve the meat market
1 The Confederation may provide subsidies for temporary market relief measures in the event of seasonal or other temporary surpluses in the meat market. 2 From 2007, the Confederation may provide subsidies to the cantons for the organisation, conduct, supervision and infrastructure of public markets in the mountain regions.
Art. 50 — Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234).
Art. 51 Delegation of public tasks
1 The Federal Council may delegate the following tasks to private organisations: a. conducting temporary market relief measures in the case of seasonal or other temporary surpluses in the meat market; b. supervising market activities in public markets and in abattoirs; c. classifying living and slaughtered animals according to their quality. 2 The private organisations shall be remunerated for carrying out these tasks. 3 The Federal Council shall appoint an agency to verify whether the private organisations have carried out their tasks cost-effectively.
Para. 1 let. c — Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234). Para. 2 — Amended by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234).
Art. 51bis Sale of sheep’s wool
The Confederation may take measures relating to the sale of sheep’s wool. It may support domestic sales through subsidies.
Art. 51bis — Inserted by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234).
Art. 52 Subsidies for domestic egg production
The Confederation may provide subsidies for sales measures to benefit domestic egg production.
Art. 52 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Art. 53
Repealed by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, with effect from 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234).
Chapter 4 Arable Farming
Art. 54 Subsidies for individual crops
1 The Federal Council may pay subsidies for individual crops in order to: a. maintain the production capacity and efficiency of individual processing chains to ensure adequate provision for the population; b. ensure an adequate supply of fodder for livestock. 2 The Federal Council decides on the crops and the amount of the subsidies. 2bis For sugar beet for sugar production, a contribution of 2,100 francs per hectare and year shall be paid until 2026. If the sugar beet is grown in accordance with the requirements for organic farming or integrated production, an additional contribution of 200 Swiss francs per hectare per year shall be paid until 2026. 3 Subsidies may also be paid for farmland in the foreign part of the Swiss border zone under Article 43 paragraph 2 of the Customs Tariff Act of 18 March 2005.
Art. 54 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075). Para. 2bis — Inserted by No I of the FA of 1 Oct 2021, in force since 1 March 2022 (AS 2022 85; BBl 2021 457, 748). Para. 3 — SR 631.0
Art. 55 Additional payment for grain
1 The Confederation may make an additional payment to producers for grain. The Confederation may restrict the additional payment to grain for human consumption. 2 The additional payment shall be based on the budgeted resources and the quantity or the area under cultivation that is eligible for subsidies. The Federal Council shall specify the requirements for making the additional payment. 3 The branch organisations may take joint self-help measures relating to the use of the additional payment in terms of paragraph 1.
Art. 55 — Amended by Annex 2 of the FD of 15 Dec. 2017 (Export competition and export subsidies), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2018 3939; BBl 2017 4351).
Art. 56
Repealed by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, with effect from 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Art. 57
Repealed by No I of the FA of 22. June 2007, with effect from 1 July 2009 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Art. 58 Fruit
1 The Confederation may introduce measures regarding the processing of pomaceous fruit, stone-fruit, berries and fruit products as well as grapes. It may pay subsidies for processing fruit. 2 …
Art. 58 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, in force since 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075). Para. 2 — Repealed by No I of the FA of 16 June 2023, with effect from 1 Jan. 2025 (AS 2024 623; BBl 2020 3955).
Art. 59
Repealed by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, with effect from 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Chapter 5 Wine Production
Amended by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Art. 60 Permits and registration of vine planting
1 A permit from the cantonal authorities is required for planting new vines. 2 The cantonal authorities must be informed if existing vineyards are replanted. 3 The cantonal authorities shall issue permits for the planting of vines for the purpose of wine production if the planned site is suitable for this purpose. 4 The Federal Council shall set out the basic conditions for issuing permits and registering the planting of vines. It may allow exceptions. 5 The cantonal authorities may issue a temporary and regional ban on the planting of new vines if measures for relieving the market or for the conversion of vineyards are being funded or if the market situation requires such action to be taken.
Para. 5 — Inserted by No I of the FA of 20 June 2003, in force since 1 Jan. 2004 (AS 2003 4217; BBl 2002 4721, 7234).
Art. 61 Register of vineyards
The cantonal authorities keep a register of vineyards that includes any special characteristics.
Art. 62
Repealed by No I of the FA of 16 June 2023, with effect from 1 Jan. 2025 (AS 2024 623; BBl 2020 3955).
Art. 63 Classification
1 Wines are divided into the following classes: a. wines with an appellation d’origine contrôlée; b. domestic wines; c. table wines. 2 The Federal Council shall draw up a list of the criteria governing the classification of wines with an appellation d’origine contrôlée and domestic wines. It may stipulate a minimum level of natural sugar content and a maximum yield per unit of land area, taking into account the production conditions specific to a given area. 3 Otherwise, the cantonal authorities shall set out the requirements for each criterion with regard to wines with an appellation d’origine contrôlée and domestic wines produced within their borders and under their own traditional designation. 4 The Federal Council shall stipulate the requirements concerning domestic wines that are sold without a traditional designation and for table wines. It may define the terms relating specifically to wine, in particular traditional terms, and stipulate their use. 5 It shall draw up regulations
Art. 63 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Art. 64 Verification
1 In order to protect designations and labels, the Federal Council shall issue regulations for the verification of grape harvests and trading in wine. It shall stipulate requirements that must be met by the cantonal authorities, the producers, the cellarers and wine traders, in particular with respect to registration, accompanying documentation, cellar accounts and inventories. Insofar as the protection of designations and labels is not compromised, the Federal Council may allow exceptions and simplifications. It shall coordinate the verification process. 2 In order to simplify collaboration between the verification agencies, it may foresee a central database. It shall stipulate requirements for such a database with regard to content and operation as well as data quality, and set out the conditions for access and use of the said data. 3 The cantonal authorities are responsible for carrying out the grape harvest verification. The Confederation may offer a global amount to help fund the
Art. 64 — Amended by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, in force since 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Art. 65
Repealed by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, with effect from 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).
Art. 66
Repealed by No I of the FA of 22 March 2013, with effect from 1 Jan. 2014 (AS 2013 3463, 3863; BBl 2012 2075).
Art. 67–69
Repealed by No I of the FA of 22 June 2007, with effect from 1 Jan. 2008 (AS 2007 6095; BBl 2006 6337).