Identifying Specific Targets for the Member States to Achieve the European Union's Goal of 50 per cent Reduction in Sales of Veterinary Antimicrobials by 2030

Abstract

SummaryThis article proposes a tailored approach to reduce antimicrobial use (AMU) in livestock among EU countries, in alignment with the EU Farm‐to‐Fork initiative that targets a 50 per cent reduction by 2030. We argue against a one‐size‐fits‐all target and introduce country‐specific targets based on individual factors such as current antimicrobial sales, GDP, and livestock and human densities. Using data from the European Surveillance of Veterinary Antimicrobial Consumption (ESVAC), the article identifies countries with high densities of animals and humans, as well as high levels of AMU per livestock unit, such as Germany, Belgium, Italy, Spain and Poland, as needing to prioritise greater reduction efforts. The article also underlines the need for a more precise EU‐level indicator of AMU, as sales do not directly represent use. It suggests that specific targets and regulations should apply to antimicrobials classified as ‘Highest Priority Critically Important Antimicrobials’ by the WHO. The article recommends extending these targets to different sectors and even individual farms, with high‐consumption sectors and poorly performing farms making greater efforts. By considering these factors, the article aims to provide a fair and effective approach to reducing AMU, mitigate the risks associated with antimicrobial resistance, and contribute to achieving the Farm‐to‐Fork strategy AMU reduction target.