Wales: Bovine electronic identification (EID) will become mandatory
31st October 2025
Bovine electronic identification (EID) is set to become mandatory for all newborn calves in Wales, following consultation carried out by the Welsh Government.
The official consultation took place between 19th June and 14th August 2025, and received 30 responses.
Deputy first minister and cabinet secretary for rural affairs Huw Irranca-Davies said: “I would like to thank all stakeholders who took the time to consider and respond to this consultation. I also acknowledge the support for the long-awaited implementation of Bovine EID in Wales along with your concerns as conveyed in those responses.
“After thoroughly reviewing all the feedback from the public consultation, the Welsh Government has decided to move forward with the introduction of Bovine Electronic Identification (EID) for newborn calves in Wales, using Low Frequency (LF) technology.”
Mr Irranca-Davies confirmed that the Welsh Government will continue to collaborate closely with DEFRA to ensure, where practicable, that implementation plans in Wales are aligned with those in England.
He added that the implementation date for Bovine EID is unlikely to be before 2027. Further information, including the technical specifications for official Bovine EID ear tags, will be made available in due course.
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