Towards eliminating tail docking of pigs in the Netherlands: Exploration of economic aspects and opportunities for implementation

For the transition towards pig farming without tail docking, an analysis has been performed of the cost increase, of conditions for supply chain implementation, and of the possibilities and feasibility of a calamity fund. Costs are mounting up to €26 per delivered pig, and to €29 per pig during the learning phase. Under the assumption that 5-15% of the pigs will have tail damage and thus will not be eligible for compensation, a remuneration of €28-31 per pig with undocked tail in good condition is necessary to cover costs on farm level. This derives from a model-based analysis, where assumptions were based on literature and interviews.