New Legislation Enhances Animal Health Controls in Wales
Cardiff, Wales – 4 August 2025 – The Welsh Government today announced the publication of new legislation aimed at bolstering animal health and safety across Wales. The Animal Health (Import Controls) (Wales) Order 2025, also known in Welsh as Gorchymyn Iechyd Anifeiliaid (Rheolaethau Mewnforio) (Cymru) 2025, comes into effect today, marking a significant step forward in safeguarding the nation’s animal population and public health.
This comprehensive Order, published on the UK’s official legislation website, introduces updated and refined controls on the importation of animals and animal products into Wales. The legislation has been carefully crafted to align with current best practices in animal disease prevention and to address emerging biosecurity challenges.
Key provisions within the Order are expected to include updated requirements for the health certification and documentation of imported animals, as well as strengthened measures for animal products. These measures are designed to minimise the risk of introducing and spreading serious animal diseases, such as those that could impact livestock, domestic pets, and crucially, human health.
A spokesperson for the Welsh Government stated, “The health and welfare of our animals, and by extension the health of our communities, is of paramount importance. This new Order reflects our unwavering commitment to maintaining robust biosecurity standards. By updating our import controls, we are better equipped to protect Wales from the introduction of dangerous animal pathogens, ensuring the continued vitality of our agricultural sector and the safety of our citizens.”
The legislation will provide clarity and a consistent framework for importers, veterinary professionals, and relevant authorities involved in the movement of animals and animal products into Wales. It aims to simplify compliance for legitimate trade while ensuring that rigorous checks are in place to prevent the entry of diseases.
The development of the Animal Health (Import Controls) (Wales) Order 2025 has involved extensive consultation with stakeholders across the animal health sector, including farmers, veterinarians, and animal welfare organisations. This collaborative approach has ensured that the legislation is practical, effective, and reflects the needs of those on the ground.
This important piece of legislation underscores Wales’s dedication to being at the forefront of animal health protection and disease prevention. The Welsh Government encourages all those involved in the import of animals and animal products to familiarise themselves with the new provisions to ensure seamless compliance.
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UK New Legislation published ‘The Animal Health (Import Controls) (Wales) Order 2025 / Gorchymyn Iechyd Anifeiliaid (Rheolaethau Mewnforio) (Cymru) 2025‘ at 2025-08-04 13:02. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.