European-style veterinary reform: what does Law No. 4718-IX change for business?

On March 2, 2026, key provisions of Law No. 4718-IX came into effect, through which Ukraine is updating regulations in the fields of veterinary medicine, animal welfare, and feed production in accordance with EU standards. The document significantly changes the operating conditions for manufacturers and importers of veterinary drugs, agricultural holdings, farms, logistics companies, and feed producers.

New Rules of the Game for Veterinary Medicines

The law introduces new terminology—from now on, the term “veterinary medicinal products” is used instead of “veterinary drugs.” This refers to any substances that have properties for treating or preventing diseases in animals or are intended to restore their physiological functions.

The production, import, distribution, and use of veterinary medicinal products are permitted only after state registration. Registration is now valid indefinitely—an exception applies to products intended for a limited market (valid for 5 years).

A separate requirement applies to products for animals intended for food production: their state registration will be granted only upon establishing maximum residue limits for active ingredients. This means enhanced control over the safety of products of animal origin.

Online sales—permitted, but with restrictions

The law legalizes the retail sale of veterinary drugs via the internet. However, this right is limited to market operators registered in Ukraine who hold a valid license and are included in a special list.

Important: Only over-the-counter medications may be sold online.

Antibiotics — banned for growth stimulation

Significant changes await farmers and agricultural holdings. The law prohibits the use of antibiotics for growth promotion and to increase animal productivity. Their continuous use or use to compensate for inadequate housing conditions is also prohibited.

In addition, a list of medications reserved exclusively for human medicine is established—their use in veterinary medicine is prohibited.

Animal welfare—as a legal category

The document introduces the concept of “animal welfare,” which encompasses the physical and mental state of animals, as well as the absence of hunger, thirst, fear, pain, and thermal discomfort.

Personnel involved in the care, transport, or euthanasia of animals are required to possess the necessary knowledge and skills. Consequently, businesses will have to either train their employees or replace their staff.

Strict requirements for the transport of animals

New standards are being established for long-haul flights:

• vehicle certification;
• drivers must have documentation of relevant training;
• maintenance of trip logs;
• mandatory vehicle fitness certificate for logistics companies.

Market operators will be held liable for violations of animal welfare laws.

New Standards for the Feed Market

A State Register of Feed Additives is being introduced in the feed production sector. For state registration, a complete registration dossier must be submitted, including the additive’s classification, a description of its characteristics, purity criteria, and proof of payment of administrative fees and reference laboratory services.

This means stricter requirements for the transparency and quality of feed products.

Restrictions on advertising prescription veterinary drugs

Advertising of prescription veterinary drugs is generally prohibited. An exception is advertising targeted at veterinary professionals and market operators.

For operators of livestock facilities, advertising is permitted only for immunobiological veterinary medicinal products, with a mandatory recommendation to consult a veterinarian.