Report on the impact of animal welfare international activities on the competitiveness of European livestock producers in a globalized world

Background and further information:

The European Union has always been at the forefront in developing a solid and science-based legislative model on animal welfare. The Commission from early on understood that, to be sustainable, such a model should also be disseminated internationally. Promoting animal welfare and fair competition globally remains one of the Commission's priorities on animal welfare.

The overall objective of the Commission's international activities on animal welfare is promoting EU values regarding animals, to raise awareness and encourage globally, particularly with EU-trading partners, high animal welfare standards, reflecting the EU model and principles. Improving animal welfare standards globally also contributes to ensure a level playing field between EU and non-EU operators.

In 2012, within its EU Strategy for the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2012-2015, the Commission decided to continue its international activities on animal welfare. The Commission outlined the need to include animal welfare provisions in bilateral trade agreements or to establish other forms of cooperation, as well as develop concrete collaboration with non-EU countries.

The EU Strategy foresaw the adoption of this report. It constitutes an important step to take account of the international activities conducted in the last 15 years in the area of animal welfare.

ESO: EU animal welfare strategy, 2012-2015: state of play and possible next steps http://www.europeansources.info/record/eu-animal-welfare-strategy-2012-2015-state-of-play-and-possible-next-steps/

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