Luxembourg’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Viticulture reported that on Tuesday 10 February 2026, the Chamber of Deputies unanimously adopted Bill No. 8300 transposing Regulation (EU) 2016/429 on transmissible animal diseases.
The ministry noted that the purpose of this legislation is to incorporate into national law the European provisions relating to official controls and other official activities, while defining the applicable powers and penalties.
Regulation (EU) 2016/429, in force since 21 April 2021, constitutes the harmonised legal framework of the European Union in the field of animal health. It is supplemented by a series of delegated and implementing acts specifying the detailed arrangements for its application. The objective is to strengthen the prevention, surveillance and control of animal diseases, while supporting the competitiveness of the livestock sector and the security of the internal market.
According to the ministry the national bill consolidates and simplifies the existing provisions in order to enable the competent authorities and operators to focus on key priorities, in particular the prevention and early detection of diseases. It also clarifies the responsibilities of farmers, veterinary surgeons and all other stakeholders concerned.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and Viticulture, Martine Hansen, stated: “We naturally hope that Luxembourg will continue to be spared transmissible animal diseases. However, should such a scenario arise, this new legal framework will enable us to respond more swiftly, implement the necessary measures and combat the spread of these diseases more effectively.”
Moreover, the ministry said the text also provides for greater use of innovative technologies, such as electronic identification and enhanced monitoring of pathogens, in order to improve the effectiveness of control mechanisms. In a context marked by the emergence of new animal diseases, particularly in connection with climate change, this modernised framework strengthens Luxembourg’s capacity to prevent health risks and to respond effectively in the event of a crisis. As certain diseases may be transmissible to humans, these measures also contribute to the protection of public health.
