As in previous years, cattle stocks fell further in 2019 (-1.2%). This trend was particularly noticeable in dairy cows (554,600 animals, -1.7%). Since 1999, dairy cow stocks have decreased by 19% and the number of breeding facilities has also been reduced (-47%). Spurred on by the success of organic production, beef production continued to make gains as it has done in previous years. The number of suckler cows increased by 2.2%, stocks having tripled within 20 years (1999: 41,200, 2019: 128,300). In pork production, the number of producers fell (5,800, -5.7%) as did the animal stocks (-4.1%). Overall, poultry farming experienced an upturn in 2019 (+2.5%). Due to rising demand, the number of laying hens increased by 5.3% in comparison with 2018. 18% of them are bred in accordance with the requirements for an organic label. On the other hand, the number of broiler chickens remained stable in comparison with the previous year. Sheep and goat stocks also remained practically the same in 2019. The latter of these are mainly raised in the cantons of Bern, Grisons, Valais and St. Gallen. Three-quarters of dairy sheep stocks are bred in accordance with organic farming guidelines.
Definition of farm
1 hectare of utilised agricultural area or 30 ares of special crops or 10 ares of protected crops or 8 sows or 80 fattening pigs or a pig shed to house 80 fattening pigs or 300 poul-try units.