Geneva to pay wine growers not to grow

Friday, 27 March 2026 06:30

Authorities in Geneva are proposing a new support scheme for struggling winegrowers, aimed at preserving vineyards without forcing production.

The State Council of Geneva plans to offer CHF 18,000 per hectare each year to maintain vines, even if no grapes are harvested.

The proposal comes as an alternative to uprooting vines amid a broader crisis in local winegrowing.

To fund the plan, the government is requesting an additional CHF 2.3m francs for this year on top of existing support measures.

Officials say the goal is to safeguard Geneva’s wine-growing landscape while giving producers time to adapt.

More from Bitesize News

Bern considers tighter rules on foreign home buyers

The government is proposing tighter restrictions on property purchases by foreigners in a bid to ease pressure on the housing market.
Outrage over Trump's Christ photo spreads

Anger is mounting in Switzerland after Donald Trump’s criticism of the Pope and a controversial image he posted depicting himself in a Christ-like role.
Elderly man dies after car park fight

A dispute in a Lausanne car park about a dog being left in a car has led to the death of an elderly man.
Suspected baby killers tracked to Switzerland

A couple accused in the death of their seven-month-old baby in Italy has been arrested in Switzerland after fleeing the country last year.
Initiative launched to control federal costs

A cross-party group led by the Young Liberals has launched a federal initiative aimed at curbing the growth of the federal administration.
Cheesemaker accused of stealing tonnes

An award winning cheesemaker in canton Valais is facing charges that he stole more than 12 tonnes of raclette cheese for over three years from the dairy he works at.