October 7, 2025
US tariffs threaten Swiss dairy industry, 25,000 cows at risk
Around 25,000 dairy cows in Switzerland could face slaughter because of the US tariffs, according to a report by NZZ am Sontag.
The figure is based on estimates by the Swiss milk industry organisation, according to which the current milk surplus of around 5 % would have to be offset by a corresponding reduction in the number of cows.
In a normal year, 85,000 cows would be slaughtered. According to the report, the milk surplus is partly due to the US import tariffs, which have caused sales of Swiss cheese to plummet.
On the other hand, favourable weather conditions have led to above-average milk production. Several farmers have therefore begun to reduce the size of their herds and send healthy animals to slaughter earlier than planned.
In its monthly report, the milk sector organisation warned of falling prices if production does not fall and wants to support the export of cream and butter with CHF11 million (US$13.82 million) from an emergency fund.
- Blue News
