Global Policy

In response to outcries led by CIWF and other activists across the world, some governments have enacted restrictions on live animal export. This year alone, two countries have banned the practice altogether. However, the European Union and other countries have been slow to address the issue.

Brazil - On April 25th, 2023, the 25th Federal Civil Court of São Paulo ordered that no live animals should be exported from Brazil’s ports. CIWF and partners sent a letter to an EU Commissioner to bring light to this ban and advocate for EU action.

New Zealand – On April 30th, 2023, New Zealand enacted legislation to ban live exports by sea.

Germany and Luxembourg – Both Germany and Luxembourg have banned live exports to countries outside of the European Union.

The European Union –The EU is currently revising its animal welfare laws, which also cover live transport and export to countries outside the EU. Demands for a ban on live exports must be stronger and louder than ever this year during this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Sweden, Belgium, and Denmark (the VUGHT Alliance), have called for an EU-level ban on live exports to countries outside the EU.

While live export is uncommon in the United States, farmed animals are routinely transported long distances within the country for slaughter or fattening, after auction, etc. Under current US law, farmed animals are required to be offered a five-hour break from travel with food and water after 28 consecutive hours of transport. However, the extent to which this rule is followed and enforced is difficult to determine. Additionally, animals often fall or jump off trucks during transport, and while some are saved by rescues and good Samaritans, many of them die in the process.