Denmark to ban mink farming in government U-turn

Denmark will ban mink farming by August 2029, abandoning plans for an EU exemption. The decision follows a decline in the fur industry and concerns over animal welfare. The government initially sought to protect the mink industry but reversed its stance after the recent elections. The ban will be implemented with a two-year transition period, and the remaining mink farms will face closure costs estimated at around 14 million Danish krone. The fur trade has faced challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when millions of mink were culled due to a virus mutation. The decision has been welcomed by animal welfare advocates.