Organisation of the FOAG
The Federal Office for Agriculture (FOAG) is part of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER). The FOAG is divided into six directorates comprising 25 specialist divisions and around 300 employees. Agroscope, the federal government’s centre of expertise for agricultural research, is affiliated to the FOAG.
The six directorates of the FOAG
Senior Management
Senior Management is responsible for strategic management and coordination of Swiss agricultural policy. It is also responsible for communication and public relations in Switzerland’s three official languages.
Markets and International Affairs
The Markets and International Affairs Directorate ensures that agricultural producers can achieve maximum added value from the sale of their products. The Directorate supports capacity-building measures, innovation and marketing in the various sectors. It is also involved in international organisations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Direct Payments and Rural Development
The Direct Payments and Rural Development Directorate is responsible for granting subsidies to farmers who provide various public services. It also promotes the vitality of rural areas.
Digitalisation and Data Management
The Digitalisation and Data Management Directorate provides focused and forward-looking support for digital transformation and data management in the agriculture and agri-food industry.
Production Bases, Natural Resources and Research
The Production Bases, Natural Resources and Research Directorate focuses on resilient production systems and ecosystems. Its responsibilities include ensuring sustainable protection for plants and optimum nutrition for animals. The Directorate also promotes a range of research and advisory projects in Switzerland and internationally.
Legal Affairs, Resources and Integral Security
The Legal Affairs, Resources and Integral Security Directorate ensures that measures taken by the FOAG comply with the law and is responsible in particular for personnel matters.
FOAG organisational chart
Video about the FOAG
Further information
The FOAG provides a reduced English-language version of its website that does not include all further information such as documents, legislation or links. These can be found on the pages in the three official languages (German, French and Italian).
Index
Related topics
Management Board
The Federal Office for Agriculture (FOAG) Management Board is responsible for strategic management of the service and coordination of its different directorates. It manages central projects and ensures information is shared between offices and divisions.
Mission and responsibilities
For sustainable, market-oriented agriculture production and a secure food supply.