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THE LATEST ON EU AGRI-FOOD POLICIES IMPACTING LOW- AND MIDDLE-INCOME COUNTRIES

Animal welfare during transport

Published by AGRINFO on
Revised
Animal Health / Animal health
Animal Health / Animal health certification
Animal Health / Animal welfare
Official controls / Animal health controls
Official controls / Official controls

Summary

This proposed Regulation aims to reinforce existing animal welfare rules during transport. Whereas the current rules (Regulation 1/2005) do not apply to live animals imported into the EU from non-EU countries, the proposed rules will also apply to imported animals.

The European Commission’s proposal sets out detailed requirements on all aspects of animal welfare during transport, including the fitness of animals for transport, the quality and safety of vehicles and equipment, time limits for journeys, temperatures, feeding and watering, and space allowances.

The proposed rules will require non-EU transporters of animals to apply for an authorisation to transport animals. Non-EU competent authorities will be required to certify that journey plans for animals meet conditions that are at least equivalent to those required by the proposed Regulation.

Feedback on this proposal closed on 12 April 2024.