Long-distance livestock transport causes significant welfare harm and has been the subject of major regulatory debate globally.
Livestock transport welfare involves cumulative stress from multiple simultaneous stressors — mixing unfamiliar animals, noise, motion, temperature extremes, feed and water deprivation, and postural restriction. Animals arrive at their destination in compromised welfare states that can persist for days. Long-distance live export exposes animals to these stressors for extended periods with limited ability to provide adequate care on vessels or vehicles. Welfare science consistently supports policies that minimise transport duration, mandate journey breaks, and prioritise slaughter at the point of origin. Consumer pressure and regulatory change are the primary levers for improvement in a practice driven by economics.