Fur farming is facing a major crisis as production declines due to disease outbreaks, animal welfare concerns, and falling consumer demand. In 2012, global production exceeded 81 million mink and fox pelts, but by 2023, it had dropped to fewer than 15 million. Countries across Europe have been banning fur farming, citing ethical concerns, with the Netherlands, Norway, and the UK among the first to eliminate the practice. Even in China, the world’s largest producer, fur farming has seen a sharp decline due to reduced demand and growing scrutiny of industry practices.
Several more countries, including Spain and Sweden, are considering phasing out mink farms, while an EU-wide ban could dramatically reshape the industry. The Greek fur sector, heavily reliant on Russian buyers, has also struggled due to sanctions. Meanwhile, reports of inhumane conditions have sparked legislative proposals to outlaw fur farming in Poland and Finland. Bans continue to gain traction and consumer preferences shift away from real fur.