The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment announced a ban on breeding and possessing bears for bile and on bile extraction, effective 1 January 2026. The practice’s popularity has declined due to questions over medicinal effects, cheaper alternatives and increased awareness of animal cruelty.

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The controversial practice involved raising bears so bile could be taken from their gallbladders for traditional uses. About 200 bears remain on farms while disputes continue over compensation for farmers surrendering their animals.