Ukraine is moving towards the practical implementation of European farm animal welfare standards. New requirements for keeping agricultural animals have been in force since January 1, 2026, while further reforms envisage the development of a comprehensive state control system. The transition is being implemented under Ukraine's 2025–2027 Roadmap for aligning national animal welfare rules with EU legislation.
For farmers, the new rules introduce specific requirements for livestock operations. They regulate housing conditions, available space, lighting, ventilation, feeding and access to water. Owners and keepers must also regularly inspect animals, provide timely veterinary care and complete appropriate animal welfare training. Additional specific requirements apply to pigs, calves, broilers and laying hens.
Farms are also required to keep records of veterinary medicines used, animal deaths, changes in animal health, preventive measures and veterinary interventions. These records must be retained for at least three years and made available during official inspections. Overall, animal welfare regulation covers three main areas — keeping, transportation and slaughter.
Government authorities say that producers' attitudes towards the new standards have also changed in recent months, with even small and medium-sized farms increasingly viewing them as more than a formal requirement of European integration. The next stage is practical compliance, training for farmers and competent authorities, and the development of an effective inspection system. For Ukrainian livestock producers, these changes are also important in terms of access to the EU market, competitiveness and future export opportunities.