Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Welfare and International Comparison

Comparing pig welfare standards across countries reveals large variation in both legislation and practice. Understanding international differences informs advocacy and trade policy.

Key Facts

EU pig welfare legislation is among the most comprehensive globally
Countries including Norway and Switzerland have stronger enrichment and space requirements than EU minimums
Many major pig-producing countries including USA and China have weaker welfare legislation
Trade policy can drive welfare improvement by requiring import equivalence
Consumer pressure and corporate commitments are globalising some welfare standards

Welfare Considerations

International welfare comparison highlights the large range of conditions pigs experience globally. Trade policy requiring welfare equivalence and corporate global supply chain standards can spread welfare improvements beyond progressive jurisdictions.

What You Can Do

Support trade policy advocacy linking import standards to welfare requirements
Choose pork from countries with strong welfare legislation where labelled
Advocate for global pig welfare standards through international corporate campaigns
Learn about international pig welfare variation and its implications