Written question – List of invasive alien species, part 3 – E-002525/2025

Question for written answer  E-002525/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Anna Bryłka (PfE)

In connection with the decision taken at the 21st meeting of the Committee on Invasive Alien Species on 20 June 2025, could the Commission please urgently provide clarification as to the inclusion of the American mink (Neogale vison) on the list of invasive alien species representing a threat to the European Union, in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 1143/2014.

According to the information provided at that meeting, the introduction of a two-year transitional period before the entry into force of provisions restricting the rearing of American mink was considered appropriate. In light of the above:

• 1.Does the Commission plan to publish binding guidelines or legal interpretations on how the rules apply to mink breeders during the transitional period, in order to ensure legal clarity and predictability for the sector?
• 2.How does the Commission interpret a situation in which a mink farm – established on the basis of a single environmental decision – was subsequently divided into several independent economic operators operating with the same infrastructure? Will each of these activities be treated as a separate entity in the light of the provisions of Regulation 1143/2014?
• 3.Can American mink farming in a closed system (without contact with the external environment) be considered acceptable under the exception or derogation provided for in Article 9 of the Regulation?

Submitted: 24.6.2025