Spain changes system for identification and tracking of cattle, pigs and poultry

The document establishes an updated system for the identification , tracking and registration of cattle , sheep, goats, pigs, horses, camels, deer, poultry, hares and fur animals, as well as bees and parrots.

As the publication writes, the adopted rules regulate various aspects, some of which are being introduced for the first time. In particular, the law establishes mandatory electronic identification for cattle and individual identification for camels, deer and parrots.

At the same time, changes were made to the form and content of identification documents. Thus, the structure of the identification code for cattle, sheep, goats and horses was changed. Now the species code will be included in the fourth and fifth positions of the last 15 digits of the code.

In addition, two types of documents are being introduced for breeding and leased horses and for registered horses. In addition to standard information, the documents must also contain data on the HEALTH of the animal, confirmed by a conclusion issued by the competent authority. The system for issuing such documents has also been changed. Now, the responsibility for interaction with the competent authorities has been assigned to associations. At the same time, the organization issuing the document must ensure the secure transfer of information and its entry into the database, as well as the delivery of the document to the owner of the animal.

According to the decree, after 5 years, identification documents will be used exclusively for the movement of animals outside the country within the European Union. For internal movements, their presence will not be mandatory.

Information about a change in the status of an animal (e.g. in the event of death) must be entered into the General Register of Individual Identification of Animals (RIIA) no later than 7 days for cattle and 3 months for sheep, goats, camels and deer.

The new rules will come into force on January 2, 2024 .