Definition: Federal Office for Agriculture - Wine and spirits

The FOAG is committed to ensuring that farmers produce high-quality foodstuffs in a sustainable manner that meets market needs. It works towards a multifunctional agriculture that contributes substantially to:

* to the secure supply of food for the population;

* to maintaining the natural foundations of life and preserving

the rural landscape;

* decentralised land use.

The FOAG implements the decisions of the sovereign, Parliament and the Government in cooperation with the cantons and farmers' organisations, and plays an active role in shaping agricultural policy. The new Agriculture Act, in force since 1 January 1999, provides the framework for the sustainable development of agriculture. In this context, "sustainability" has three dimensions: economic, ecological and social. The state creates and consolidates the framework conditions conducive to the production and marketing of agricultural products at home and abroad. It compensates farmers for services of general interest, particularly ecological services, through direct payments. The FOAG is concerned with the future of agricultural policy and the development of rural areas. In view of domestic policy requirements and foreign policy challenges, it is important to find a socially acceptable solution for our farmers.

The FOAG performs a wide range of tasks. It is concerned with the future of agricultural policy and rural development. Faced with domestic policy requirements and foreign policy challenges, it must find a socially acceptable path for the farming community. An important department deals with all matters relating to viticulture.

Wines and spirits are regulated by the FOAG in terms of appellations, imports and exports. Publications are available on wine years, wine-growing areas and other harvest reports.