Economic Viability of EU Fur Farming Under Scrutiny

A recent report titled "A full-cost account of the EU fur industry," authored by environmental economist Griffin Carpenter, highlights the unsustainable financial state of fur farming in the European Union. The report reveals that fur farming has become unprofitable, costing EU citizens approximately €446 million annually due to the industry's negative economic impact, which includes environmental and public health costs that far exceed its gross value added (GVA). The fur sector has experienced a staggering 92% decline in pelt sales value over the past decade, leading to a loss of €9.2 million in GVA.

EU fur farming has been unprofitable for years and costs EU citizens €446 million a year, new report finds

The report outlines significant environmental costs associated with fur production, estimated at €226 million per year. These costs arise from pollution, resource depletion, and the introduction of non-native species, which pose risks to local ecosystems. Furthermore, fur farms have been linked to public health threats, serving as reservoirs for zoonotic diseases, a concern amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic. Preventative measures against these diseases could cost up to €211 million annually.

EU fur farming has been unprofitable for years and costs EU citizens €446 million a year, new report finds

In light of these findings, animal protection groups are urging the European Commission to implement an EU-wide ban on fur farming and trade. This call follows a scientific opinion from the European Food Safety Authority, which stated that animal suffering is unavoidable in fur farming, regardless of potential improvements in animal welfare. The Fur Free Europe initiative, supported by 1.5 million EU citizens, has also contributed to this momentum, with the Commission expected to respond by March 2026.

EU fur farming has been unprofitable for years and costs EU citizens €446 million a year, new report finds

Members of the European Parliament, such as Kristian Vigenin, have emphasized the need for legislation to eliminate the trade that benefits from cruelty and ecological damage. Griffin Carpenter noted that the fur industry is unique in that it starts from a position of negative economic value, further exacerbated when considering environmental and public health costs. Dr. Joanna Swabe from Humane World for Animals Europe echoed these sentiments, stating that the industry's decline and its detrimental effects on society outweigh any potential benefits.

EU fur farming has been unprofitable for years and costs EU citizens €446 million a year, new report finds

As of now, 23 EU Member States have enacted full or partial bans on fur farming, with Poland, Finland, and Greece being notable exceptions. The number of animals killed for fur has decreased by 86% over the last decade, with projections indicating a further decline of 15-20% as existing phase-out periods conclude by 2028. The fur industry currently constitutes less than 0.003% of EU jobs, and the number of fur farms has decreased by 73%, leading to a significant reduction in employment within the sector.

EU fur farming has been unprofitable for years and costs EU citizens €446 million a year, new report finds

“Griffin Carpenter, the report’s author, stated: “Typically in these exercises we test to see if an industry adds more economic value to society than it subtracts in environmental or social costs.” — Griffin Carpenter, Author of the Report

EU fur farming has been unprofitable for years and costs EU citizens €446 million a year, new report finds

“Dr Joanna Swabe, senior director of public affairs at Humane World for Animals Europe, formerly known as Humane Society International, said: “This report very clearly shows that the fur industry is in great financial decline.” — Dr. Joanna Swabe, Senior Director of Public Affairs at Humane World for Animals Europe

EU fur farming has been unprofitable for years and costs EU citizens €446 million a year, new report finds

“EFSA's recent scientific opinion has shown that animals' complex welfare needs are not being met on fur farms, and this report shows that the industry is not financially viable.” — Dr. Joanna Swabe, Senior Director of Public Affairs at Humane World for Animals Europe

EU fur farming has been unprofitable for years and costs EU citizens €446 million a year, new report finds

“The fur sector’s apparent profits mask staggering hidden costs - on public health, biodiversity, animal welfare, and the climate.” — Kristian Vigenin, MEP

EU fur farming has been unprofitable for years and costs EU citizens €446 million a year, new report finds

This report underscores the urgent need for legislative action to address the economic, environmental, and ethical implications of fur farming in the EU.

EU fur farming has been unprofitable for years and costs EU citizens €446 million a year, new report finds