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Background to formal notices
Following attacks and denunciations from animal rights associations, several stores have received formal notices concerning this practice. GIFAP (Groupement de l'industrie Française d'Articles de Pêche) is mobilized to obtain this clarifying regulation.âeuros
Practical obligations
Download and present the official circular in the event of an inspection by the DDPP or OFB (Office Français de la Biodiversité).
A "procedure note" detailing the steps involved is currently being drafted by GIFAP and will be sent to retailers shortly.
Deadlines and recommendations
Respect the June 30, 2026 deadline to avoid penalties. The aim of this measure is to regulate marketing while authorizing the practice under strict administrative conditions.
To contest a formal notice sent by animal rights associations concerning the sale of live animals in stores, respond quickly by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt (LRAR), based on the new circular dated December 26, 2025. This response should be factual, polite and structured, identifying the irregularities in the formal notice (in form or substance) and enclosing the official circular as proof of regulatory compliance.
Key steps
- Acknowledge receipt of the formal notice with its exact date and subject.
- Challenge the unfounded points: absence of immediate legal obligation (deadline until June 30, 2026 for DDPP/FSC formalities) and reference to the circular from the Ministry of Ecological Transition.
- Ask for the letter to be withdrawn immediately, and warn against any abusive consequences (harassment or defamation claims).
- Please enclose the downloadable circular and proof of your regulated activity.
Contact GIFAP for specific support, and consult a lawyer if the formal notice persists or leads to legal action. Associations have no direct coercive power; only the administration (DDPP/OFB) controls. And you can always contact GIFAP if you have any specific questions.
