This Order of the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine No. 5148 dated 20.04.2026 establishes clear technical and veterinary-sanitary requirements for control posts where agricultural animals (cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, goats) rest during long-distance transport. The document is aimed at ensuring an appropriate level of animal welfare and compliance with sanitary standards, in line with European standards. It regulates the process of state registration of such posts, their inclusion in a special Register, and their conditions of operation. It is important to note that the Order also defines strict biosafety rules, animal handling procedures, and requirements for the equipping of premises.
**Structure and Main Provisions:**
The document consists of nine sections and an annex (Register template).
* **Sections I-II:** Define terminology, the procedure for the registration of control posts, the maintenance of their Register, and requirements for state control.
* **Sections III-V:** Regulate the conditions for the admission of animals, the rules for their stay (including veterinary status), and the procedure for departure from the post.
* **Sections VI-VIII:** Establish technical requirements for biosafety, equipment for loading/unloading, and the arrangement of premises (ventilation, lighting, bedding, drainage).
* **Section IX:** Describes animal handling practices, including rules for feeding, watering, and the prohibition of animal cruelty.
This is a new regulatory act that details the implementation of the Law of Ukraine “On Veterinary Medicine and Animal Welfare” regarding transportation.
**Key Provisions for Practical Application:**
1. **Mandatory Registration:** A control post cannot function without being included in the official Register maintained by the competent authority (the State Food and Consumer Service of Ukraine).
2. **Sanitary Intervals:** Mandatory intervals must be observed between batches of animals (at least 24 hours after cleaning and disinfection), which is critical for preventing the spread of infections.
3. **Personnel Requirements:** Personnel must possess confirmed professional competence (a state certificate) regarding animal welfare.
4. **Technical Standards:** Animal ramps must have an inclination angle of no more than 20-26 degrees (depending on the animal species), and floors must be non-slip.
5. **Reporting:** The market operator is required to keep detailed records of each batch of animals (time of stay, health status, carrier data) and retain these records for three years.
