Export of animals and animal products

The export provisions vary depending on the animal or animal product concerned. Irrespective of the country of destination, animals and animal products from protected species are subject to special export provisions. The provisions of the country of destination also apply.

The export provisions for animals differ depending on whether an individual is travelling with a pet or animals are being exported. The information on these pages is intended solely for individuals who intend to sell or hand over their animals to other people or institutions. The provisions for individuals who do not intend to sell or hand over their animals to other people or institutions can be found under Travelling with pets.

For animals and animal products from non-protected species (animal semen, eggs and embryos) and animal by-products, a distinction is made between export to the EU and export to a third country (country outside the EU). In both cases the authorities designated by the canton are responsible for issuing any certificates (export licences or health certificates) required.

What are animal products?

The term animal products covers:

  • Foodstuffs of animal origin 
  • Foodstuffs containing a component of animal origin 
  • Products such as animal semen, eggs or embryos 
  • Animal by-products (see Article 4, letter c of the Ordinance on the Import, Transit and Export of Animals and Animal Products (IETAO-DS and IETAO-EU - in French))

These are potential carriers of pathogens. It also covers hay and straw.

Important: The export of foodstuffs of animal origin is dealt with on the Export of foodstuffs page. The information here concerns animal products such as animal semen, eggs and embryos and animal by-products.

What are animal-by-products?

Animal by-products include:

  • Processed animal protein and other “meat and bone meals”  
  • Pet food  
  • Raw materials for pet food manufacture
  • By-products for pet food manufacture
  • Milk and milk products, rendered fats, gelatins and collagens, hydrolysed proteins and dicalcium and tricalcium phosphate not intended for human consumption  
  • Skins and pelts, hunting trophies 
  • By-products for technical use

Export of animals and animal products from protected species (in accordance with CITES, HuntA or NCHA)

Irrespective of the country of destination, animals and animal products from protected species are subject to special export provisions. These are listed under Protected species of animals and plants.

Anyone wishing to export animals protected by the Hunting Act or the Nature and Cultural Heritage Act (HuntA or NCHA) should consult the authorities of the country of destination for the relevant import conditions.

More Information

Last modification 23.01.2019

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