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EU Delays Animal Welfare Law Review, Seeks Stakeholder Input by 2026

The EU's animal welfare law review is now set for 2026. Farmers and stakeholders have until December 12, 2023, to share their views on the revision of EU animal health law.

Here we can see drawing of a pig on a platform.
Here we can see drawing of a pig on a platform.

EU Delays Animal Welfare Law Review, Seeks Stakeholder Input by 2026

The EU has delayed its comprehensive review of animal welfare laws, now aiming to present proposals by the end of 2026. A key change under consideration is the potential ban on cage keeping, which could significantly impact pig farmers and other livestock farmers. Meanwhile, the EU Commission invites farmers and stakeholders to share their opinions on the revision of EU animal health law by December 12, 2023.

Initially planned for late summer 2023, the EU Commission pushed back the presentation of its proposed changes. Instead, a proposal to revise animal transport regulations was introduced, though progress has been limited so far. The new law is expected to address animal welfare standards for imported products, potentially leading to the end of sow stall housing for pig farmers.

The EU Commission has opened a consultation period, inviting farmers and interested parties to submit their opinions on the revision of EU animal health law. This feedback will help shape the proposed changes, which are expected to be significant by 2026. The start of negotiations on the animal welfare amendment, however, has not yet been set. The EU Commission's website hosts a form for submitting opinions on this project.

The EU's revision of animal welfare laws is now set to conclude by the end of 2026, with potential impacts on cage keeping and import standards. Farmers and stakeholders are encouraged to share their views before the December 12, 2023 deadline, as their input will help shape the upcoming changes.

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