Switzerland: National Council rejects import ban on foie gras products, opting for labelling and import monitoring instead

In Switzerland, force-feeding of geese or ducks (“Stopfmast”) has been banned for over 40 years. However, the import of such products from abroad is still permitted. A popular initiative submitted by animal welfare activists therefore calls for a ban on the import of foie gras products. In 2024, the Federal Council recommended rejecting the initiative but introduced a labelling requirement for foie gras products. 

On Wednesday, the National Council debated the proposal: it rejected the popular initiative but approved the indirect counterproposal put forward by its Committee for Science, Education and Culture. This counterproposal builds on the existing labelling requirement, seeks to enshrine it in law, and aims to monitor import volumes. If imports do not decrease within five years, additional measures are to be taken. 

Supporters of the initiative criticised that a production method banned domestically continues to be supported through imports and called for a clear stance against animal cruelty. Opponents argued that such a ban would breach international trade agreements and would restrict consumer freedom. They also noted that foie gras has cultural significance, particularly in western Switzerland and the canton of Ticino. 

After the debate in the National Council, the matter will next be considered by the Council of States.