Agriculture in Switzerland has undergone significant transformations over the centuries. Before the Industrial Revolution, it was the predominant economic activity involving about 80% of the population. During the agricultural revolutions of the 19th century, the sector modernized, with a specific development towards the dairy economy. This transformation was influenced by the change in international grain markets, favoring the import of foreign products and causing a reduction in local cultivation. During the First World War, domestic grain production was encouraged by the government to improve food self-sufficiency. Currently, agriculture in Switzerland occupies 36% of the national surface area, involves about 3% of the population and contributes 1% of the GDP.