B1 – Intermediate
Perhaps the first thing that comes to mind when you hear ‘Switzerland’ is cheese. The country is very famous for making cheese. It is a very important product from this nation.
However, for the first time, Switzerland is importing cheese more than exporting it.
Read the article about the Swiss cheese import-export trade.
https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2307/230713-swiss-cheese-2.html
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “open up” mean, “The reason is that Switzerland opened up its milk market.”? Use this phrase in your own sentence.
- What does “compete” mean, “This means it is difficult for Swiss farmers to compete with cheaper, imported milk.”? Use this word in your own sentence.
- What does “a big part of one’s life” mean, “Cheese is a big part of life in Switzerland.”? Use this phrase in your own sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What was your reaction to this news about Switzerland importing cheese more than exporting it?
- Why are dairy farms disappearing in Switzerland?
- What products does your country import and export?
- Are there any industries that are disappearing in your country? What are they and why is it happening?
- Do people in your country eat a lot of cheese? Why or why not?