The EU Forced Labour Regulation (2024/3015) is a major legislative step towards eliminating products made with forced labour from the European market.

Its goal is to ensure that goods sold or exported within the EU - regardless of origin, sector, company size, or stage of production, from raw materials to final assembly - are free from exploitation. This supports ethical trade and helps protect vulnerable workers around the world.

While the regulation primarily addresses human exploitation, it also recognises the impact forced labour practices can have on animal welfare. Authorities are encouraged to assess whether animals involved in production processes are subjected to avoidable pain, distress, or suffering.

The EU Forced Labour Regulation is grounded in international standards, including ILO Conventions, and reflects the EU’s broader commitment to human rights, decent work, and responsible business conduct. It complements other EU legislation on corporate sustainability due diligence and reinforces the EU’s existing animal welfare laws.

The regulation entered into force on 13 December 2024 and will become fully applicable across all EU Member States from 14 December 2027.

More details on here.