Mink farming for fur has been banned in over a dozen countries following sustained welfare campaigns. Understanding what has worked, where bans remain contested and the welfare reality of mink farming is essential for continued progress.
The case for mink farm bans is one of the clearest in animal welfare advocacy: the welfare compromise is severe and well-documented, viable alternatives exist, and consumer demand has shifted. Countries that have banned mink farming have generally done so without significant economic disruption. The remaining mink farming operations are concentrated in Eastern Europe, China and North America. Continued advocacy, import regulation, brand commitments and consumer pressure remain the most effective tools for completing the global phase-out of this industry.