Sweet Tooth?
Switzerland's chocolates have earned an international reputation for high quality with many famous international brands. Lindt, one example of fine Swiss chocolatiering, was first created in 1845. They take pride in a "premium chocolate of distinct smoothness, characteristic taste, and innovative flair. Every single piece is created by our unmatched passion for high-quality chocolate."
Selling Chocolate to the World
From the 19th century until the First World War and throughout the Second World War the Swiss chocolate industry was very export-oriented. After the Second World War Switzerland began to outsource production due to commercial restrictions.
Today most Swiss chocolate is consumed by the Swiss themselves (54% in 2000), and Switzerland has the highest per capita rate of chocolate consumption world wide (11.6 kg (25.6 lbs.) per capita per annum).
In 2004 148,270 tonnes of chocolate were produced in Switzerland. 53% of this was exported (20% to Germany, 11% to France and Great Britain and 13% to North America). The gross income of the Swiss chocolate industry in 2004 was 1.37 billion CHF (814 million from the local market, 551 million from exports).
Fun Fact
The Swiss eat, on average, 21 pounds of chocolate per person, per year.
