The Sejm approved a ban on breeding animals for fur, exempting rabbits, setting an eight‑year phasing‑out to 2033, and a decreasing compensation scheme ending 2031.
Sejm Passes Ban on Fur Farming
Polish lower house approved a prohibition on breeding animals for fur, including mink and foxes, with rabbits exempted. The measure establishes an eight‑year phase‑out ending 31 December 2033 and a step‑down compensation scheme until 2031.
Compensation Timeline and Amounts
Farmers ceasing operations before 1 January 2027 receive 25 % of their average yearly revenue from 2020‑2024; the rate falls to 20 % by the next year and drops 5 percentage points annually until 5 % for closures by 1 January 2031, after which no payments are due.
Employees of shutting farms qualify for a severance equal to twelve months’ salary, which owners may claim through the Social Insurance Institution.
Voting Outcome and Political Consensus
The bill passed on 17 October 2025 with 339 votes for, 78 against, and 19 abstentions, with support reported from parties across the political spectrum.
Animal‑Rights Organisations Champion the Ban
Groups such as the “Open Cage” Association and Viva! Foundation have campaigned for the prohibition for years, citing investigations, educational campaigns and petition drives. They hailed the Sejm decision as a historic milestone and highlighted the sustained public pressure, including support from EU “Fur Free Europe” and public figures.
Industry’s View on the Transition Period
Pro‑fur‑farming bodies argue that the eight‑year window is the minimum acceptable duration, citing the need to repay loans, demolish facilities and cover conversion costs. They point to longer transition periods or higher payouts in Denmark, the Netherlands and Norway and note that the updated law forbids any regulatory changes that would worsen profitability during the phase‑out.
Poland’s Fur Market in Decline yet Dominant
Data cited by NGOs show a marked drop in the number of Polish fur farms and skin exports in recent years, yet Poland remains a leading fur producer in Europe.
Legislative Process Ahead
The bill is now pending Senate consideration; once adopted—unchanged or with amendments—and signed by the President, it will enter force 14 days after publication. From that point new farms cannot be established, and existing operations will continue only within the defined transition and closure framework.
