Mink farming has been banned in a growing number of European countries on welfare grounds, and supporting farmers through the transition away from fur production is essential for completing these phase-outs.
Farmed mink welfare is severely compromised by housing conditions that prevent natural behaviours including swimming, diving, and exploration over large territories. The mass culling required during the COVID-19 outbreak demonstrated the catastrophic welfare risks of intensive mink farming during disease outbreaks. Where bans have not yet been enacted, transitional support including financial compensation and alternative livelihood training helps farmers exit the industry humanely. Consumer choice and retailer policy remain powerful drivers of market-led phase-outs.