EU livestock transport law has improved animal welfare during long journeys but significant welfare problems remain, particularly for long-distance live exports outside the EU.
EU livestock transport regulations represent genuine progress over the conditions that preceded them — space allowances, journey time limits and water access requirements have materially improved welfare for transported animals within Europe. The major remaining welfare gap is live export to non-EU countries, where EU standards cease to apply the moment animals cross EU borders. The conditions documented on long-distance sea voyages to Middle Eastern markets — overcrowding, heat stress, disease, injury and death — represent some of the worst systematically documented livestock welfare violations globally. The transition from live export to chilled meat trade is economically viable and has been achieved by Australia for some markets. Advocating for this transition is among the most impactful livestock welfare interventions available to EU citizens.