Finland approves new fur farming regulations

The Finnish Government has approved a new regulation governing the keeping of fur animals, following a preparation process that began in 2013. The new rules mandate slight increases in cage sizes for minks, foxes, and polecats. For minks, the additional space amounts to 105 cm2, which equates to a width increase of approximately 1.5 cm in a 70 cm cage.

Animalia ry has criticized the regulation, stating it fails to address core animal welfare issues. The organization noted that mesh floors remain permitted and that the proposed environmental enrichments, such as sleeping shelves or retreat spaces, are minimal. Animalia has advocated for a total ban on fur farming as the only effective way to end animal suffering.

Economic assessments suggest the transition to these new standards will cost approximately 354 million euros. Transition periods for the new cage requirements are set to extend until 2036 or 2037, depending on the species. Additionally, a report commissioned by European animal organizations suggests that the fur industry has already cost the state at least 100 million euros during the 2020s.