The Zoo Bill introduces regulations on animal welfare, captive breeding programs and management of wild species collections.
The current law does not currently provide a transparent mechanism for authorization, minimum standards of husbandry, scientific activities and conservation obligations.
This creates certain risks. For example, in 2024, dozens of exotic animals, including zebras, reindeer, ostriches and antelopes, were brought into the country without full accounting.
Among the innovations are the monitoring of zoos with the publication of lists on the website of the Environmental Protection Agency and the creation of a reserve fund for emergencies (5% of the animal budget for six months). Environmental authorization will become the main instrument of control, preventing risks for animals, the environment and visitors.
At present, the only officially operating zoo is the Chisinau Zoo. It already keeps records of animals and participates in educational and scientific work. The new law creates a legal framework primarily for private mini-zoos and contact farms.
The document is to be considered by the government and then adopted by the parliament.
UPDATE 11.02.2026
At a meeting on Wednesday, February 11, the Cabinet approved the bill. Environment Minister Gheorghe Hajder noted that the document introduces regulations for zoos for the first time, establishes authorization and inspection procedures, and provides for strict monitoring of animal origins and mandatory safety measures for staff and visitors.
“The new law will transform zoos into active scientific research institutions,” the minister noted.
