In Swiss the imported fur they continue to arouse a heated debate: many of them come from farms and processes that ethical standards requested in the country. Even if the obligation to declare the production method, the fur sector has been in force for over a decade Continue to violate These provisions. For this reason, the Federal Council He decided to intervene with concrete measures.
On May 28, 2025, in fact, the government adopted a official message relating toFur initiativewhich proposed to prohibit the import of fur products obtained by inflicting suffering to animals. However, instead of welcoming the popular initiative, the executive opted for a indirect counterattackjudged more effective and compliant with international agreements.
The new text provides not only the prohibition of importbut also that of trade on the Swiss Pellicce territory obtained through methods considered cruel. Unlike the original initiative, which aimed exclusively to import, the counter -act also wants to act on internal distribution. The definition of animal suffering refers to the criteria established by the World Organization of Animal Health, which promotes living conditions respectful of the needs of the different species.
Obligations for retailers and intensified controls
One of the central elements of the new approach concerns the Responsibility of merchants. Fur, fashion shops and online platforms will be kept a demonstrate ethical origin of the products offered for sale. Otherwise, the furs will come withdrawn from the market and the managers pursued criminally.
The Swiss Confederation also, will strengthen the controls both at the border and in the internal trade To ensure the effectiveness of the prohibition. Illegal import is expected to be sanctioned and that non -compliant goods are removed from circulation.
Pending the definitive approval of the law by Parliament, the Federal Council has already issued a prohibition of import by ordinancethat the 1 July 2025with a transitional period of two years. A choice that testifies to the political will to send a strong and clear message: in Switzerland there is no more space for products obtained at the expense of the animal welfare.
