The European Commission published a report which highlights that although protection during transport improved more needs to be done. The report stresses a series of problems hampering further improvement of such conditions.

The report presented by the Commission underlines the need to improve animal conditions during transport. The report, which compares the situation before and after the Regulation on animal welfare application, concludes that severe welfare problems during transport persist. In fact, it highlights at least three important shortcomings: the poor enforcement of legislation; market distortions created by the divergent interpretations of the rules; and the potential of the navigation system has not been fully exploited.

At the report, it is also suggested possible solutions to these problems. For instance, communication and information sharing with all stakeholders is of paramount importance. The Commission envisages also a series of measures that would improve the enforcement of rules and increase animal welfare during transport. In general, Commission actions will aim at optimizing the checks carried out by the competent authorities because the enforcement is mainly the responsibility of the Member States. These will include the preparation of Commission implementing measures to enhance the use and performance of navigation systems and to increase administrative efficiency. In addition, it is planning to increase the number of inspections in the Member States carried out by its Food and Veterinary Office (FVO).

With regard to the comparison of the situation before and after Regulation application, this revealed that the overall quality of animal transport has improved mainly because of improved transport vehicles and a better awareness of the needs of animals by the people involved. The improvements relate primarily to long journeys.