Live Animal Transport International Reform

Long-distance live animal transport causes serious welfare harms. International reform efforts are advancing but face significant trade barriers.

Key Facts

EU rules permit cattle transport up to 29 hours and poultry up to 12 hours
Research consistently shows significant welfare deterioration after 8 hours of transport
Temperature extremes, crowding, dehydration and injury are the major welfare risks
Slaughter and chilling closer to farm is the welfare-positive alternative to live export
Post-Brexit UK banned live exports for slaughter - a significant welfare advance
Some importing countries have poor welfare standards at destination
Exporters argue live animals are required for religious slaughter and genetic improvement

Welfare Considerations

Live animal transport over long distances causes significant and well-documented welfare harm. The UK post-Brexit ban on live exports demonstrated that policy change is achievable. The challenge is that international trade rules slow reform at EU and global level. Consumer pressure, corporate commitments and continued legislative advocacy are all needed to extend welfare protections.

What You Can Do

Support organisations campaigning for live export bans and improved transport welfare
Choose meat from UK and EU producers with transparent supply chains avoiding long-distance live transport
Ask retailers and food service companies about their live transport policies
Advocate for global minimum standards for live animal transport