Protection of animals during transport and related operations
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With the Council of the EU, which is preparing its first-reading position.
Last active 11 Jun 2026
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What this bill does
In plain terms: what it changes and who it affects.
This proposal strengthens EU rules on animal welfare during commercial transport, including journey limits, space, temperature controls, tracking, and export requirements.
Who it affects
It affects livestock farmers, animal transport businesses, slaughter supply chains, pet breeders and sellers, and operators moving animals into, within, or out of the EU.
Core of the proposal
- Limits slaughter journeys generally to 9 hours, with stricter rules for long journeys and rest periods.
- Requires more space, better conditions for vulnerable animals, and limits transport during extreme temperatures.
- Introduces digital journey logs and real-time positioning of road vehicles for enforcement.
- Applies EU welfare standards to imports, exports, and transit, with certification for journeys to third countries.
Key provisions
- Transitional law
- Most new rules have a 5-year transition period; rules on commercial cat and dog transport have a 3-year transition period.
Articles changed · 3 across 2 laws
- Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 (32005R0001)
- entire act: repeals the entire regulation
- Council Regulation (EC) No 1255/97 (31997R1255)
- art. 3: adds points (e) and (f) on equipment and size requirements for control posts
- art. 5: adds point (j) requiring a TRACES booking system for control posts
Latest update
12 Jun 2026The most recent development in this bill's progress.
1st reading – Council of the EU → 1st reading – European Parliament
1st reading – Council of the EU → 1st reading – European Parliament
Documents
1 recentSourcesOEILEUR-LexEU Law Tracker