Decline in the Number of Agricultural Holdings
According to the latest data from the Federal Statistical Office, the number of agricultural holdings continues to decline. In 2023, 47,719 holdings were registered, representing a 1.5% decrease compared to the previous year. This trend has persisted for decades and indicates structural changes in the agricultural sector. The main reasons for this decline are increased productivity, economic pressure, and technological advancements that put small farms at a disadvantage.
Growth of Organic Production
Despite the overall decline in the number of farms, the number of those practicing organic farming is increasing. In 2023, the number of organic farms rose by 1.0% to reach 7,896. These farms currently account for 18.2% of the total agricultural area, a significant indicator of the transition to more sustainable production methods.
Farm Structure and Land Area
Most agricultural holdings in Switzerland focus on livestock farming due to natural conditions and historical factors. In 2023, 67% of farms had cattle, while this percentage was as high as 85% for farms with more than 20 hectares. The average farm size continues to grow, indicating land concentration and consolidation.
Employment in the Sector
Agriculture employs a decreasing number of people. In 2023, a total of 148,880 people were employed in agricultural holdings, of whom 31,145 worked full-time and 16,574 part-time. This confirms the trend toward mechanization and work optimization in agriculture, reducing the need for human resources.
Conclusion
The analysis shows that Swiss agriculture is undergoing a significant transformation. The number of farms is decreasing, but land areas are increasing, indicating land concentration. At the same time, the growth of organic farming highlights the need for more sustainable production methods. Given current trends, the future of the sector will depend on farmers’ ability to adapt to new economic and environmental challenges.
SOURCE:
Statistiques et évaluations
2023
concernant l’agriculture et l’alimentation
