STOCKHOLM, 7 MAY – A Swedish government inquiry on fur farming, published last week, outlines a clear pathway for the introduction of a national ban. Swedish Fur Free Alliance member Project 1882 has welcomed the findings and is calling on the government to proceed with legislation without delay.

The inquiry follows the introduction of a phase-out scheme in 2025 for the country’s remaining mink farms, alongside a government commitment to examine how a full ban could be implemented. The report concludes that Sweden can — and should — prohibit fur farming, citing animal welfare concerns among the central reasons:

“This is one reason why we conclude that the problems cannot be solved by making adjustments to the production system, but only by ceasing operations.”

Representatives from Project 1882 described the development as a historic milestone after decades of sustained advocacy to end fur farming in Sweden. Benny Andersson, CEO of Project 1882, said:

“At last! The fur industry has been under scrutiny far too many times – this inquiry must be the last. A comprehensive ban on fur farming will be the only right way forward.”

All remaining mink farms in Sweden ceased operations during 2025 after applying for government phase-out support, amounting to 180 million Swedish kronor. As a result, no animals are currently kept for fur production in the country. With no active fur farming industry remaining, there are now fewer practical and economic obstacles to adopting a national ban.

Despite this progress, Project 1882 emphasises the urgent need for formal legislation to prevent any future re-establishment of the industry. Andersson adds:

“The work is not complete until the legislation is in place. There is nothing more to wait for now. The government should act swiftly and then actively work towards a ban at EU level as well.”

A national prohibition would align Sweden with a growing majority of European countries that have taken action to end fur farming, and would further strengthen momentum towards an EU-wide ban, which is currently being considered by the European Commission in light of its upcoming response to the record-breaking Fur Free Europe citizens’ initiative. Sweden’s move demonstrates that political leadership and commitment can deliver meaningful change for animals.

Fur Free Alliance and its members continue to call on decision-makers across Europe to take decisive legislative action to end fur farming, in line with scientific evidence and the clear and sustained opposition expressed by European citizens.