Alpacas are farmed across South America, Australia, and increasingly in Europe for their fine fleece, but welfare standards in commercial production vary enormously.
Alpaca welfare is improving in many higher-income country operations but remains poorly regulated in the major producing countries of South America. The combination of social species requirements, sensitivity to improper handling, and the stress of annual shearing means that management practices have a large impact on individual welfare. Consumer-facing certification schemes that verify welfare standards on alpaca farms - not just fibre quality - are needed to drive improvement. The growing market for alpaca fibre in ethical fashion is creating some incentive for producers to demonstrate high standards.