The export of live farm animals for slaughter in distant countries causes welfare harm disproportionate to the economic justification, and is increasingly restricted in progressive countries.
Live export for slaughter imposes welfare costs throughout the journey that are eliminated when slaughter occurs close to farm of origin with chilled meat transported instead. Journey stress, dehydration, heat, crowding, and injuries accumulate over long transports. Animals arriving at destination slaughter facilities may face higher-stress handling and procedures not permitted in their country of origin. The economic argument for live export over chilled meat trade has weakened with improvements in refrigeration and supply chain management.