UK-Switzerland trade deal to boost food exports for farmers
© AdobeStock British farmers are set to gain improved access to the Swiss market, worth an average of £195m a year between 2019 and 2022, after a new trade deal cut tariffs on key food and drink exports.
The agreement announced by Defra on Monday (13 July) gives UK agri-food and drink exporters improved access to the Swiss market, with recent trade showing a growing demand for British produce.
See also: Farm opportunities from new trade deal with Gulf states
Average annual UK beef exports to Switzerland were worth £3.2m between 2023 and 2025, while lamb exports exceeded £5.5m in 2025.
The deal includes lower tariffs for a range of agricultural products and a new sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) chapter designed to simplify trade through quicker information sharing, reduced border administration and faster resolution of trade issues.
Environment secretary Emma Reynolds said Switzerland was already an important market for British food and drink.
“This government has delivered a deal that gives British farmers and producers a real competitive edge without compromising our high standards or interests of our farmers.”
Key wins
• UK dairy exporters will see tariffs on products such as milk powder cut by up to 50%, adding to the sector’s existing tariff-free access for cheese.
• In return, the UK has offered limited tariff reductions on selected dairy imports.
• Fruit and vegetable growers will also benefit from improved seasonal access, with tariffs reduced to as low as 0% on products including peas, carrots and broad beans.
• English sparkling wine producers will receive a 34% tariff cut, giving them Switzerland’s most favourable preferential treatment for sparkling wine.
A balanced deal
NFU president Tom Bradshaw said the agreement was “a great example of a balanced deal”.
“The deal will provide exciting opportunities for our beef, lamb, dairy and viticulture sectors, and UK consumers can be reassured that Swiss imports have been produced to high standards,” he added.
The agreement will also allow the UK, subject to Swiss approval processes, to secure protection for a further 28 UK Geographical Indications, including Traditional Welsh Caerphilly and Ayrshire New Potatoes.
These would join the 66 UK products already protected in Switzerland, helping safeguard the reputation and value of regional food products.
