The European Union and Switzerland have reached an agreement on agriculture that will strengthen their ties and ensure the continued smooth trade of agricultural products. The new agreement, which was signed in June 2021, brings both parties closer together and builds on previous agreements.

The agriculture sector is an important part of the EU-Swiss relationship, with Switzerland being one of the EU`s most important trading partners in the sector. The new agreement ensures that trade in agricultural products remains uninterrupted and provides a framework for the future development of the sector.

One of the key features of the agreement is the recognition of each other`s standards and regulations. The EU and Switzerland have similar standards in areas such as food safety, animal welfare, and environmental protection. By recognizing each other`s standards, trade can flow more smoothly, and unnecessary barriers can be removed.

The agreement also includes provisions for the protection of geographical indications (GIs). GIs are signs used to identify products that originate from a specific geographic region and have a reputation or quality associated with that region. The new agreement ensures that GIs are protected and recognized in both the EU and Switzerland, which will benefit producers who rely on the reputation of their products to sell them.

Another important aspect of the agreement is the establishment of a Joint Committee on Agriculture. This committee will be responsible for monitoring the implementation of the agreement and ensuring that it remains up-to-date with developments in the sector. It will also provide a forum for discussion and cooperation between the EU and Switzerland on issues related to agriculture.

The EU-Swiss agreement on agriculture is an important step forward for both parties. It provides a solid foundation for the continued trade of agricultural products and ensures that both sides can benefit from each other`s expertise and resources. By recognizing each other`s standards and regulations, the agreement will help to reduce barriers to trade and improve market access for producers on both sides.

Overall, the agreement is a positive development for the EU and Switzerland. It demonstrates the strength of the relationship between the two parties and provides a framework for future cooperation and growth in the agriculture sector. As both sides continue to navigate the challenges of the post-Brexit landscape, the agreement will be an important tool for maintaining stability and continuity in this crucial sector.