On 23–24 April, the Assembly of European Regions (AER) Task Force on Agriculture & Rural Development travelled to Fribourg, Switzerland, for an inspiring two-day study visit exploring the future of sustainable agriculture, regional gastronomy, and rural innovation. From cutting-edge food technology to world-famous Gruyère cheese, participants discovered how our hosts, the Canton of Fribourg, are building resilient rural communities by combining tradition, research, and entrepreneurship.
đźšś Day 1: Innovation Meets Tradition
🌾 Discovering AgriCo — Switzerland’s Food Innovation Hub
The visit kicked off at AgriCo, Switzerland’s premier food and biomass campus, where participants explored innovative food-tech projects, start-ups, and sustainable production initiatives shaping the future of agriculture.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by André Schönenweid, Director of the Cantonal Land Development Agency, and Bruno Marmier, President of the Cantonal Parliament, who highlighted the importance of regional cooperation and innovation for Europe’s rural future.
Participants also had the opportunity to visit SQTS (Swiss Quality Testing Services) and Ma Spiruline, learning about emerging agricultural technologies and alternative food production models. The morning concluded with networking and a delicious macaron tasting hosted by Maison Amarella.
🧑‍🌾 Sustainable Farming in Action
The journey continued with a visit to Domaine au Village Service S.A., where delegates experienced sustainable farming practices first-hand while enjoying local products and regional specialities for lunch.
A key moment of the day was an exchange with Christian Hofer, Director of the Swiss Federal Office of Agriculture, who shared insights into Swiss agricultural policy and the country’s approach to balancing sustainability, competitiveness, and rural development.
🧀 Gruyère: More Than a Cheese, a Regional Identity
No visit to Fribourg would be complete without discovering one of Switzerland’s most iconic products: Gruyère cheese.
In Bulle, participants visited Fromage Gruyère S.A., where they learned about the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) system that protects the authenticity and quality of this world-renowned cheese. A tasting session and a guided tour of the maturation caves with Director Kevin Vonlanthen offered a fascinating look into the craftsmanship behind the product.
The evening ended in the picturesque medieval town of Gruyère, where participants enjoyed some free time before gathering for a traditional fondue moitié-moitié — a perfect moment to celebrate regional gastronomy and connect informally with fellow participants.
🔬 Day 2: Research, Education & the Future of Rural Europe
🧪 Visiting Agroscope
The second day focused on research and education as drivers of sustainable agriculture.
At Agroscope, Switzerland’s centre for applied agricultural research, participants explored ongoing projects related to dairy production, quality assurance, and food innovation. Thomas Gentil, Head of the Resources Unit and member of the executive board, introduced the institution’s role in supporting farmers and advancing evidence-based agricultural solutions. 🔍
🌱 Grangeneuve: Training Tomorrow’s Farmers
The final stop of the study visit was Grangeneuve, the Canton of Fribourg’s leading agricultural training and advisory centre. Guided by Director Pascal Toffel, the delegation toured the training farm and learned how the institution supports farmers through technical expertise, education, and business management services. 👩‍🌾📚
🤝 Strengthening European Cooperation for Rural Development
Beyond the visits and discussions, the Fribourg study visit showcased the power of regional collaboration and knowledge exchange. Participants left with new ideas, valuable connections, and fresh inspiration on how innovation, local identity, and sustainability can work hand in hand to strengthen Europe’s rural territories.
A warm thank you to the Canton of Fribourg, all speakers, hosts, and participants for making this study visit such a rich and inspiring experience.
