A European Commission communication published on 8 July 2026 sets out a long-term EU strategy for the livestock sector, aiming for a resilient, competitive, and sustainable sector by 2040. The strategy, transmitted to the Council on 13 July 2026, affects farmers, Member States, and EU institutions, and proposes measures on risk management, animal health, and innovation.
Livestock farming represents about 40% of EU agricultural added value, generates EUR 400 billion turnover per year, employs around 7 million people, and relies on 4 million farms. The sector faces significant challenges: France lost 16% of its bovine population in the last decade, and Germany lost 22% of its pig population in the same period.
The Commission will explore a dedicated risk-management financial scheme under the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework, covering climate-related insurance and risks linked to animal diseases. It will also prepare a manual on risk management for Member States' future National and Regional Partnership plans.
On animal health, the Commission will review the Animal Health Law, disease categorisation, and vaccination rules, based on scientific advice from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). It will develop guidance on vaccination coupled with regionalisation and compartmentalisation to address third-country recognition.
The strategy is accompanied by a protein plan and builds on stakeholder engagement through the Livestock Workstream. The transition will be supported by the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) post-2027, the Generational Renewal Strategy, the EU Bioeconomy Strategy, and the Fertiliser Action Plan.
Policy orientations and trade-offs The strategy balances economic viability with environmental sustainability. It aims to reduce emissions and improve animal welfare while maintaining competitiveness. The risk-management scheme could reduce financial burdens on farmers, but may require increased public spending. The review of animal health rules may tighten disease control, potentially increasing compliance costs for producers.
Impact on stakeholders - Farmers: Benefit from new risk-management tools and support for disease prevention, but face potential costs from stricter health regulations and transition requirements. - Member States: Must implement new guidelines and may need to adjust national plans, with possible administrative burden. - EU institutions: The Commission will lead legislative reviews and funding proposals; the Council and Parliament will negotiate the post-2027 CAP and MFF. - Consumers: May see improved animal welfare and sustainability, but could face higher prices for livestock products.
Institutional follow-up The strategy will be implemented through CAP post-2027 negotiations, legislative proposals on animal health, and the development of the risk-management scheme. The Commission will report on progress in 2028.