The Swedish Warmblood Association (SWB) has announced that as of March 1, 2025, the registration of offspring produced through the reproductive techniques OPU/ICSI will no longer be allowed in their studbook. This decision is made in accordance with Sweden's animal protection laws, where such interventions are prohibited.
The decision, which applies retroactively to offspring from March 25, 2024, underscores SWB's commitment to equine welfare over commercial interests. "We want to emphasize that equine welfare always outweighs purely commercial interests for SWB. We believe that a clear ethical compass in the long run will be a success factor," says Per Jansson, Chairman of the SWB Board of Directors.
The decision does not affect the reproductive technique Embryo Transfer - ET, which will still be permitted within the association. SWB is thus taking an important step forward in promoting responsible breeding practices and ensuring equine welfare in Sweden.
Source: Press Release