The Association of Ukrainian Pig Breeders (AUPB) has joined this process as both a partner and trainer. The organization provides educational support and develops practical tools to help farms adapt to the new welfare standards.
The training program for inspectors is being implemented with the support of the Swiss-Ukrainian Quality FOOD Trade Program (QFTP). Its goal is to build a network of professionals capable not only of conducting inspections but also of providing on-site consulting for producers.
Oksana Yurchenko, President of AUPB, took part in the training as a trainer for pig welfare inspection.
“Implementing new standards is a complex process. On one hand, producers need better understanding and practical solutions for compliance; on the other, inspectors must clearly identify welfare indicators and master verification methodologies,” — said Yurchenko.
The inspector training sessions are held at leading livestock enterprises that demonstrate best practices in animal welfare. One such venue is Agro Plus 2006 LLC (Cherkasy region), a member of AUPB, where inspectors received hands-on training in assessing pig welfare standards. The farm specializes in antibiotic-free pork production, where animal welfare principles are an integral part of its operational philosophy.
By the end of 2025, AUPB plans to launch an online course for producers that will include:
- explanations of Order No. 224 requirements;
- step-by-step welfare compliance check algorithms;
- recommendations on housing conditions and animal care.
Additionally, the Association is developing practical tools such as guidelines, checklists, daily animal observation forms, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to help farmers transition smoothly to the new norms.
The Association of Ukrainian Pig Breeders is a non-profit, voluntary organization established by domestic pork producers. Its main goals are to represent and protect the rights and interests of member farms, promote new technologies in efficient pork production, expand sales markets, and protect the domestic market.