European Union: EU Proposes New Regulation on Animal Welfare During Transportation

On December 7, 2023, the European Commission adopted a proposal for a new Regulation on the protection of animals during transport to replace Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005. This proposal is the most advanced part of the EU’s review of the animal welfare legislation under the Farm to Fork (F2F) strategy. The draft proposal shows that the Commission will seek to reduce maximum journey times for live animal, increase space allowances, amend the means of transport and transport conditions. This proposal also includes requirements for animals imported from third countries into the EU. The proposal would require additional training for inspectors, transporters, veterinarians and increase the administrative and financial burden throughout the process, including for trade with non-EU countries.