A recent repport recommends abolishing the legal requirement for Swedish cows to graze during the summer to boost competitiveness.

At the end of August, a long-awaited report on the competitiveness of Swedish agriculture was presented. Commissioned by the government, the report proposes changes to the Animal Welfare Act, including removing the mandate for summer grazing.

The current Swedish Animal Welfare Act, in effect since April 1, 2019, could see these changes implemented by January 1, 2026, if the recommendations become law.

While various changes are suggested, the proposal to abolish the grazing requirement has sharply divided consumers, farmers, and dairies. To date, only Normejerier has expressed a desire for its suppliers to continue grazing their cows. Arla and other dairies have yet to take a position.

Opponents of the proposal advocate maintaining Sweden’s unique law that guarantees cows the right to graze outdoors during the summer, seeing it as vital for animal welfare and health.

Supporters, including LRF, the major farmers’ association, believe that Swedish farmers should have the autonomy to decide when — or if — grazing is appropriate. They argue that eliminating the requirement is essential for improving the country’s agricultural competitiveness.

– Sweden is the only EU country where milk production has declined since 1995. Other countries have seen growth, and while it’s not only due to the grazing law, it’s one of the factors. Over half of the cheese consumed in Sweden is imported. We must confront this reality, said LRF Chairman Palle Borgström during a debate on Swedish Radio.

Read more about the study and the grazing requirement HERE

Photo: Rasmus Andersen, Unsplash