BARCELONA, 24 JULY 2026  – Catalonia moves closer to becoming the first territory in Spain to ban the practice of fur farming. Last week, the Parliament of Catalonia approved a resolution calling on the regional government to prohibit the practice and prevent new fur farms from being authorised.

Although there are currently no active fur farms in the region, the measure aims to prevent any future re-establishment of the industry and avoid the serious animal welfare, public health and environmental risks associated with fur farming. The resolution was backed by the Socialist Party (PSC), Junts per Catalunya, Esquerra Republicana, Comuns and CUP.

The decision reflects growing scientific evidence that fur farms pose significant risks to animal welfare, biodiversity and public health, including the spread of zoonotic diseases. It also points to the lasting environmental damage caused by escaped American mink from former Catalan fur farms, as well as the industry’s pollution and high climate footprint.

ARDE, Spanish Fur Free Alliance member organisation, welcomed the vote:

“We welcome the Parliament’s approval of this proposal, which represents an important step to protect animals, our ecosystems and public health. Catalan society rejects raising animals in tiny cages simply to make fur coats. We hope the Government of Catalonia will translate this pioneering political commitment into an effective ban as soon as possible, so that Catalonia stands on the right side of history alongside the rest of Europe.”

The move comes as the European Commission prepares its response to the Fur Free Europe European Citizens’ Initiative, adding to the growing momentum to end this cruel industry in Europe.