26/06/2026
On December 2, 2025, Polish President Karol Nawrocki signed a law that bans fur farming nationwide. Poland can’t open any new fur farms, and all existing farms must close by December 31, 2033.
Poland played a major role in the fur industry. It was the European Union’s largest fur producer, with farms holding an estimated 3.4 million mink, foxes, chinchillas, and raccoon dogs. With this law, Poland becomes the 24th country in Europe to end fur farming.
The ban followed a scientific opinion from the European Food Safety Authority. The agency said animals kept in small wire cages for their whole lives cannot have their basic welfare needs met. Polish fur farms also saw outbreaks of COVID-19 and avian influenza, which raised public health concerns. In November 2025, a survey found that 68.2% of Poles supported the ban.
The law offers compensation for farmers who leave the industry. The Sejm and the Senate passed the bill with cross-party support before it went to the president.
For the 3.4 million animals still on these farms, the countdown has started. The deadline is 2033.
Sources: European Food Safety Authority / Fur Free Alliance / Eurogroup for Animals / Notes From Poland
