Denmark to ban mink farming following government decision

The Danish government has announced it will not apply for an EU exemption regarding mink farming, effectively making the practice illegal in Denmark. This decision follows an EU directive that added the mink to the list of invasive species in June 2025, which mandates a ban across member states by August 2027.

While the previous administration had intended to seek a special arrangement to allow the industry to continue, the current government has opted to let the ban proceed. The Ministry of Nature and Animal Welfare cited both the protection of native species and animal welfare concerns as primary reasons for the decision.

Animal welfare organizations, including Dyrenes Beskyttelse, have welcomed the move, describing it as a victory for animal rights. Advocates have long criticized the industry, noting that the confinement of minks in small wire cages is incompatible with the animals' natural behaviors and needs.