The Digitalization strategy of the Swiss agri-food sector
National digitalization strategy for Swiss agriculture and food systems
DescriptionOverview of the initiative and its approach.
The Digitalization strategy of the Swiss agri-food sector (Digitalisierungsstrategie des BLW für den Schweizer Agrar- und Ernährungssektor) is a national policy framework designed to guide the digital transformation of agriculture and food systems in Switzerland over an eight-year period. The strategy plans to create a data-based agri-food sector, simplify agricultural policy administration and deliver user-centred digital public services for farmers and value-chain actors.
TechnologyTechnology used by the initiative.
The Digitalization strategy defines how the Federal Office for Agriculture (FOAG) and partners will modernize the sector’s digital ecosystem, with a clear focus on strengthening key national platforms such as agridata.ch for agrifood data exchange, the I14Y interoperability platform, and for publishing interoperability standards and API specifications. The strategy promotes interoperable and secure data sharing through common standards, catalogues, interfaces and code lists, supported by cloud-based services and analytics including AI where relevant, and improved exchange of farm management and sensor data across systems.
TargetUsers, groups, or communities targeted by the initiative.
The initiative targets farms of different sizes, federal and cantonal administrations, inspection bodies and other public sector organizations, farm advisors, agri-food companies, technology providers and academia and research institutions.
Business modelHow the initiative delivers and sustains its value.
The Digitalization strategy of the Swiss agri-food sector is financed through national public funding, primarily via the Federal Office for Agriculture (FOAG) budget and the dedicated DigiAgriFoodCH transformation programme, and does not charge usage fees. The strategy sector is designed so that digital services, standards and infrastructure are integrated into regular public administration and sector governance, enabling long-term maintenance through public investments rather than commercial monetisation.
ImpactThe observed or intended effects of the initiative.
The policy aims to reduce administrative burden by modernizing FOAG’s application landscape and improving interoperability across systems, thereby freeing time and resources. The initiative intends to enhance data-driven decision-making, transparency and innovation, and strengthen digital skills, building on the analysis of 14 existing applications with an average age of nine years and consultations with more than 150 external organizations during its preparation.
PartnersOrganizations and stakeholders involved in the initiative.
Agroscope; ELCA Informatik AG; Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office; Federal Statistical Office; Identitas AG; Swiss Farmers’ Union; WBF ISCeco
Four BettersThe FAO Four Betters supported by the initiative.
Better production
Better nutrition
Better environment
Better life
